How to Add Degree Symbol in Word
Adding a degree symbol in Microsoft Word is simple and useful, especially for writing about temperatures, angles, or scientific data. You can easily insert the degree symbol through keyboard shortcuts or the symbol menu. Following these steps will ensure that your document looks professional and precise.
How to Add Degree Symbol in Word
Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to add a degree symbol in Word. This guide will cover different methods to suit your needs, whether you’re a keyboard shortcut wizard or prefer to navigate through menus.
Step 1: Open Your Word Document
Step 1: Open your Word document.
Before you can add a degree symbol, you’ll need to have your document open and ready. Make sure your cursor is placed where you want the degree symbol to appear.
Step 2: Use the Keyboard Shortcut
Step 2: Use the keyboard shortcut Alt + 0176.
On your keyboard, press and hold the Alt key while typing 0176 on the numeric keypad. This will insert the degree symbol (°) right where your cursor is.
Step 3: Use the Symbol Menu
Step 3: Navigate to the "Insert" tab and click on "Symbol."
If you’re not keen on using keyboard shortcuts, you can also insert the degree symbol by going to the "Insert" tab, clicking on "Symbol," and then selecting "More Symbols."
Step 4: Select the Degree Symbol
Step 4: Choose the degree symbol from the list.
In the "Symbol" dialog box, you’ll see a variety of symbols. Scroll through the list until you find the degree symbol (°), click on it, and then click "Insert."
Step 5: Confirm the Insertion
Step 5: Close the Symbol window.
After inserting the degree symbol, close the Symbol window. Your degree symbol should now be in your document.
Once you’ve followed these steps, your degree symbol will appear wherever you placed your cursor. Now, let’s explore some tips to make this process even easier.
Tips for Adding Degree Symbol in Word
- Use the numeric keypad: Make sure Num Lock is on for the Alt + 0176 shortcut.
- Use recent symbols: After inserting a symbol once, it will appear in the "Recently Used Symbols" list.
- Customize Quick Access Toolbar: Add the Symbol button to your Quick Access Toolbar for faster access.
- Learn other shortcuts: Other useful shortcuts include Ctrl + Shift + 2 followed by the spacebar for certain fonts.
- Use AutoCorrect: Set up an AutoCorrect entry to replace a specific text string with the degree symbol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a degree symbol in Word Online?
Yes, you can add a degree symbol in Word Online by going to the "Insert" tab, selecting "Symbol," and then choosing the degree symbol.
What do I do if my keyboard doesn’t have a numeric keypad?
If your keyboard lacks a numeric keypad, use the Symbol menu to insert the degree symbol.
Can I copy and paste the degree symbol from another document?
Absolutely, you can copy the degree symbol from another document and paste it into your Word document.
Is there a degree symbol in different fonts?
Yes, the degree symbol is available in various fonts, though it might look slightly different. Check the Symbol menu for options.
How do I undo the insertion of a degree symbol?
Simply place your cursor after the degree symbol and press the backspace key to delete it.
Summary of Steps
- Open your Word document.
- Use the keyboard shortcut Alt + 0176.
- Navigate to the "Insert" tab and click on "Symbol."
- Select the degree symbol from the list.
- Close the Symbol window.
Conclusion
Adding a degree symbol in Word is a quick and easy process once you know the steps. Whether you choose to use a keyboard shortcut or navigate through the Symbol menu, you’ll find that inserting this symbol enhances the clarity and professionalism of your documents.
Mastering these simple techniques can save you time and effort in your writing, making your documents more precise. So next time you’re working with temperatures, angles, or scientific data, you’ll be able to add that degree symbol without a hitch. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other Word tips and tricks to become even more efficient in your document creation process. Happy writing!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.