Inserting a degree symbol in Google Docs is a breeze once you know how. There are several methods to do this, but the most straightforward way involves using the "Special characters" tool in the Google Docs menu. By following a few simple steps, you can easily add the degree symbol (°) to your document.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Insert a Degree Symbol in Google Docs
Let’s walk through the steps to get that degree symbol into your Google Docs document.
Step 1: Open the "Insert" menu
First, you need to locate the "Insert" menu in the Google Docs toolbar.
In the Google Docs toolbar, there’s an "Insert" option. Click on it to reveal a drop-down menu where you’ll find various elements you can add to your document.
Step 2: Click on "Special characters"
In the "Insert" menu, select "Special characters" to open the character map.
The "Special characters" tool is like a treasure trove where you find all kinds of symbols and characters that are not readily available on your keyboard.
Step 3: Type "degree" in the search box
Once the "Special characters" dialog box appears, use the search box to type "degree."
By typing "degree" in the search box, the tool will filter out and display the degree symbol along with any other related characters.
Step 4: Select the degree symbol
Locate the degree symbol from the search results and click on it to insert it into your document.
Once you click on the degree symbol, it will immediately appear in your document where your cursor is placed.
After completing these steps, the degree symbol will be part of your text, and you can continue typing or formatting the document as needed.
Tips: How to Insert a Degree Symbol in Google Docs
- If you’re a keyboard shortcut enthusiast, on Windows you can press
Alt
+0176
, and on MacOption
+Shift
+8
to insert the degree symbol. - Remember that the "Special characters" tool also allows you to draw the symbol, which can be handy if you’re not sure what it’s called.
- You can copy and paste the degree symbol from another document or web page into your Google Docs document.
- If you use the degree symbol frequently, consider adding it to your personal dictionary for even quicker access.
- Always make sure the symbol is clear and not confused with other similar-looking characters, like the letter "o" or the number "0".
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the degree symbol if I don’t know the name of the character?
If you’re not sure what the character is called, you can use the drawing feature in the "Special characters" tool. Just draw a rough approximation of the symbol, and Google Docs will find it for you.
Can I use keyboard shortcuts to insert the degree symbol?
Yes, you can use keyboard shortcuts to insert the degree symbol. On a Windows PC, press Alt
+ 0176
, and on a Mac, press Option
+ Shift
+ 8
.
Is it possible to insert the degree symbol on Google Docs mobile app?
Inserting the degree symbol on the Google Docs mobile app can be done using the keyboard on your phone or tablet. Look for the symbol in the symbols or numbers section of the keyboard.
Will the degree symbol be displayed correctly on different devices?
The degree symbol is a universally recognized character, so it should display correctly on different devices and software as long as the font being used supports it.
Can I customize the appearance of the degree symbol?
Like any text, you can change the font, size, color, and other formatting options for the degree symbol to match the rest of your document.
Summary
- Open the "Insert" menu.
- Click on "Special characters."
- Type "degree" in the search box.
- Select the degree symbol.
Conclusion
There you have it! Inserting a degree symbol in Google Docs is a handy skill that elevates the professionalism and accuracy of your documents, especially if you’re dealing with temperature, angles, or scientific data. With the simple steps outlined above, you can quickly add this important symbol to your work. Remember, using the "Special characters" tool is not just for the degree symbol; it’s your gateway to a whole world of symbols that can enhance your writing. So, go ahead and explore what else is available – who knows what other useful characters you might discover? Whether you’re a student, professional, or just someone who loves to keep their documents neat and precise, mastering the art of inserting special characters like the degree symbol will definitely come in handy. Don’t forget to check out the tips and FAQs for more insights and to address any lingering questions you might have. Happy documenting!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
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