How To Make A Degree Symbol In Word

Posted on by Noah Belkacem

Introduction

The degree symbol (°) is commonly used in various fields such as mathematics, science, and weather reports. It is essential to know how to insert this symbol accurately in Word documents to maintain professionalism and accuracy. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of making a degree symbol in Word.

Method 1: Using the Symbol Menu

Word provides a built-in symbol menu that allows you to insert special characters, including the degree symbol. Follow these steps:

  1. Open your Word document and place the cursor where you want to insert the degree symbol.
  2. Go to the “Insert” tab in the Word ribbon.
  3. Click on the “Symbol” button in the “Symbols” group.
  4. A drop-down menu will appear. Select “More Symbols” at the bottom of the menu.
  5. The “Symbol” dialog box will open. Make sure the “Symbols” tab is selected.
  6. Scroll through the list of symbols or use the search box to find the degree symbol.
  7. Click on the degree symbol to select it.
  8. Click the “Insert” button to insert the degree symbol into your document.
  9. Click the “Close” button to close the “Symbol” dialog box.

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, you can easily insert the degree symbol in Word by following these steps:

  1. Open your Word document and place the cursor where you want to insert the degree symbol.
  2. Hold down the “Alt” key on your keyboard.
  3. While holding down the “Alt” key, type the code “0176” on the numeric keypad.
  4. Release the “Alt” key, and the degree symbol (°) will appear in your document.

Method 3: Using AutoCorrect

Word’s AutoCorrect feature allows you to create a custom shortcut that automatically replaces it with the degree symbol. Follow these steps:

  1. Open your Word document and go to the “File” tab.
  2. Select “Options” from the menu.
  3. In the “Word Options” dialog box, click on “Proofing” in the left sidebar.
  4. Click on the “AutoCorrect Options” button.
  5. The “AutoCorrect” dialog box will open. Go to the “AutoCorrect” tab.
  6. In the “Replace” field, type a unique shortcut, such as “deg”.
  7. In the “With” field, type the degree symbol (°).
  8. Click the “Add” button, then click “OK” to close the dialog boxes.

Method 4: Copy and Paste

If you already have the degree symbol copied from another source, you can simply paste it into your Word document. Follow these steps:

  1. Open your Word document and place the cursor where you want to insert the degree symbol.
  2. Right-click and select “Paste” from the context menu, or use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl + V” to paste the symbol.
  3. The degree symbol (°) will be inserted into your document.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I change the font or size of the degree symbol in Word?

A: Yes, you can change the font or size of the degree symbol just like any other text in your Word document. Simply select the degree symbol and apply the desired font or size using the formatting options in the Word ribbon.

Q: Can I insert the degree symbol in Excel or PowerPoint using the same methods?

A: Yes, the methods mentioned in this tutorial can also be used to insert the degree symbol in Excel and PowerPoint. The steps may vary slightly, but the overall process remains the same.

Q: Is there a shortcut to insert the degree symbol on a Mac?

A: Yes, on a Mac, you can insert the degree symbol by pressing the “Option + Shift + 8” keys simultaneously.

Tips for Using the Degree Symbol in Word

Here are some additional tips to help you effectively use the degree symbol in Word:

  • Ensure that the degree symbol is properly aligned with the text. Adjust the spacing and alignment as needed.
  • Use the degree symbol when indicating temperatures, angles, or geographic coordinates.
  • Proofread your document to ensure that the degree symbol is correctly inserted and appears in the intended places.
  • If you frequently use the degree symbol, consider creating a keyboard shortcut for quick access.

Conclusion

Inserting a degree symbol in Word is a simple process that can be done using various methods. Whether you prefer using the symbol menu, keyboard shortcuts, AutoCorrect, or copy and paste, you now have the knowledge to accurately insert the degree symbol into your Word documents. Remember to use the method that suits your workflow best and always double-check for accuracy.