How to Make the Degree Symbol in Windows

To use Alt-0176 for a degree symbol, you need a numeric keypad.

The degree symbol isn't used often enough to be included in a standard keyboard, but that doesn't mean it isn't available. To add special characters like the degree symbol, you have a few options. Many apps, like those in Microsoft Office, include it in the Insert menu. For other apps, you can use the Windows character map. If you are going to use the symbol a lot, it may be worthwhile to memorize its keyboard shortcut so you can type it quickly whenever you need it.

  • Microsoft Office

1 Using the Symbol Command

Click the "Insert" menu and select "Symbol" when you are using apps with a Symbol command, like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, OneNote and Visio. Click "Symbol" top open the Symbol dialog box.

Select the "Symbols" tab in the Symbol dialogue box.

Double-click the "Degree" symbol to insert it in the document where the cursor is currently placed.

2 Using the Character Map Tool

Type "character map" in the Windows 8 Search field. As you begin typing the Character Map utility appears in the search results.

Click "Character Map."

Click the "Degree" symbol. Click "Select," then "Copy."

Return to the document you were working on, put the cursor where you want the degree symbol to appear and click "Paste."

3 Using the Character Code

Place the cursor where you want the degree symbol to appear.

Hold down the "Alt" key, type "0176" on the numeric keypad.

Release the "Alt" key and the degree symbol appears in your document.

  • If the degree symbol is already in your document, you can add it again quickly simply by copying it. Highlight the symbol and press "Ctrl-C" on the keyboard. Whenever you need the degree symbol again, just press "Ctrl-V" to paste it.
×