Getting those annoying special symbols like the degree sign on a Windows 11 laptop can seem like chasing a kangaroo — a bit tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, she’s a piece of piss. Usually, it’s just about knowing where to look or which shortcut to hit. But fair dinkum, some setups can be a bit awkward, especially if your laptop doesn’t have a dedicated numpad — which is pretty common on ultrabooks or smaller models. No worries, though — there are a few reliable ways to get that symbol into your documents without breaking a sweat.
How to Type the Degree Symbol on Your Laptop (Windows 11)
This isn’t just filler — knowing these methods comes in handy when you’re typing out temperatures, angles, or coordinates. They’re simple and work across most apps, whether you’re in Word, Notepad, or even chatting. More often than not, you’ll end up using the same trick again and again, so it’s worth choosing a method that suits your setup best.
Method 1: Use the Alt Code with the Numpad
This is the classic way. Hold down Alt and type 0176 on your numpad. Why does it work? Because Alt codes are like shortcuts to special characters. Works great when Num Lock is on and you’ve got a proper numpad. On some laptops, this doesn’t work on the first go or at all — no surprises there, Windows can be a bit of a pain. After you punch it in, the degree sign (°) should show up wherever your cursor is.
Note: If your laptop doesn’t have a numeric keypad (most ultrabooks or smaller machines), this method probably won’t do the trick unless you plug in a external numpad or turn on the virtual one.
Method 2: Use the Character Map
This one’s a bit old school, but pretty dependable. Hit Start, search for Character Map. Open it up, then scroll or search for the degree symbol. Once you find it, click Copy. Then just paste it into your document with Ctrl + V. If you need to chuck in a few special symbols regularly, this is a handy shortcut — plus, it’s got plenty of other characters if you need them too.
Why it helps: It’s a visual way to grab just about any symbol you want, especially handy if your keyboard shortcuts aren’t playing ball or you need a handful of tricky characters.
Method 3: Use the Touch Keyboard
This method is pretty underrated, but super handy. To turn on the Touch Keyboard (if it’s not already in your taskbar), right-click the taskbar, select Show touch keyboard button. Then, click the icon to bring up the emoji/symbol panel. It’s like a hidden gem for quick symbol access. Find the degree sign (usually under symbols or emoji) and click to pop it into your text. Perfect if you’re working on a touch screen or device without a numpad.
Why it helps: It’s quick as a cut snake and doesn’t require memorising codes or opening extra apps. Plus, it works on pretty much any Windows setup.
Tips for Typing the Degree Symbol on Your Laptop (Windows 11)
- Make sure Num Lock is switched on if you’re trying the Alt code — no Num Lock, no joy.
- Sometimes, you might need to restart or log out and back in for the Alt code to start working.
- If you’re using it a lot, consider creating a keyboard shortcut or macro (if your software supports it, like in MS Word or with AutoHotkey).
- The Character Map is also ace for other symbols — heaps of Unicode characters ready to go.
- If you’re doing a lot of this, you can even customise the Touch Keyboard to always include your favourite symbols for quick access.
FAQs
Why isn’t the Alt code working on my laptop?
Most likely because your laptop doesn’t have a physical numpad, or Num Lock isn’t turned on. Sometimes, even if you do have a numpad, Windows can be a bit finicky. Double-check Num Lock, or try one of the other methods instead.
Can I use these tricks in any software?
Most likely, yeah. They usually work in Word, Excel, Notepad, browsers — basically anywhere you can type. But if you’re using some fancy or specialised app with its own input system, it might need a different approach.
What if my laptop doesn’t have a numpad?
No worries — that’s common. Just stick with the Touch Keyboard or Character Map. Or, if you’re handy with the tech, you could set up a custom hotkey using macros or AutoHotkey scripts for even quicker access.
How do I turn on the Touch Keyboard?
Right-click the taskbar, select Show touch keyboard button. When the icon appears, click it and browse the symbols. Sometimes just having it enabled makes inserting symbols a doddle.
Are there other Alt codes for the degree sign?
Not really — Alt + 0176 is the go-to. Trying other codes might give you different characters or symbols, but not the degree sign.
Summary
- Press Alt + 0176 with Num Lock on.
- Use the Character Map.
- Grab the symbol via the Touch Keyboard, especially handy on touchscreen devices or laptops without a numpad.
Hopefully, this helps you get that symbol every time without pulling your hair out. With these options, it’s just a matter of finding what suits your setup best. No more frantic searching — it’s all about practising the trick until it becomes second nature.