The degree symbol, represented by a small circle, is a common character used in various fields, including mathematics, physics, and engineering. When working on a Mac, typing the degree symbol can be a bit tricky, but there are several keyboard shortcuts that can help you do so quickly and efficiently. In this article, we will explore over 12 Mac keyboard shortcuts to type the degree symbol fast.
Introduction to Degree Symbol Keyboard Shortcuts
Before we dive into the various keyboard shortcuts, it’s essential to understand the basics of typing the degree symbol on a Mac. The degree symbol can be typed using the Option (⌥) key and the 8 key on the numeric keypad. However, this method may not be convenient for everyone, especially those who prefer to use the main keyboard area. Fortunately, there are several alternative keyboard shortcuts that can help you type the degree symbol quickly and efficiently.
Method 1: Using the Option Key and 8 Key
The most common method to type the degree symbol on a Mac is by using the Option (⌥) key and the 8 key on the numeric keypad. To do this, follow these steps:
- Make sure the Num Lock is on.
- Press and hold the Option (⌥) key.
- While holding the Option (⌥) key, press the 8 key on the numeric keypad.
- Release the Option (⌥) key and the 8 key.
This will insert the degree symbol (°) into your document or text field.
Method 2: Using the Keyboard Viewer
Another method to type the degree symbol on a Mac is by using the Keyboard Viewer. To access the Keyboard Viewer, follow these steps:
- Go to System Preferences > Keyboard.
- Click on the Keyboard Viewer button.
- In the Keyboard Viewer window, click on the Option (⌥) key and then click on the 8 key.
- This will insert the degree symbol (°) into your document or text field.
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Keyboard Shortcut App
If you find it difficult to remember the keyboard shortcuts or prefer a more customizable solution, you can use a third-party keyboard shortcut app. There are several apps available that allow you to create custom keyboard shortcuts for typing the degree symbol. Some popular options include:
- Alfred: A productivity app that allows you to create custom keyboard shortcuts for various tasks, including typing the degree symbol.
- Keyboard Maestro: A keyboard shortcut app that allows you to create custom macros and shortcuts for typing the degree symbol and other characters.
- TextExpander: A text expansion app that allows you to create custom shortcuts for typing frequently used characters, including the degree symbol.
| Method | Keyboard Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Option Key and 8 Key | ⌥ + 8 |
| Keyboard Viewer | System Preferences > Keyboard > Keyboard Viewer |
| Third-Party App | Varies depending on the app |
Additional Keyboard Shortcuts
In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are several other keyboard shortcuts that can help you type the degree symbol on a Mac. Some of these shortcuts include:
- ⌥ + 0 (zero): This shortcut types the degree symbol (°) on some Mac keyboards.
- ⌘ + ; (semicolon): This shortcut opens the Special Characters window, where you can select the degree symbol (°) and insert it into your document or text field.
- ⌘ + ⌥ + T: This shortcut opens the Text Substitutions window, where you can select the degree symbol (°) and insert it into your document or text field.
What is the most common method to type the degree symbol on a Mac?
+The most common method to type the degree symbol on a Mac is by using the Option (⌥) key and the 8 key on the numeric keypad.
Can I use a third-party keyboard shortcut app to type the degree symbol?
+Yes, you can use a third-party keyboard shortcut app to type the degree symbol. There are several apps available that allow you to create custom keyboard shortcuts for typing the degree symbol.
In conclusion, typing the degree symbol on a Mac can be done using various keyboard shortcuts. The most common method is by using the Option (⌥) key and the 8 key on the numeric keypad. Alternatively, you can use the Keyboard Viewer or a third-party keyboard shortcut app to type the degree symbol. By mastering these keyboard shortcuts, you can increase your productivity and efficiency when working on your Mac.
