MacBook shortcuts

How to Type the Degree Symbol on MacBook

MacBook-specific tips for typing ° in documents, browsers, spreadsheets, and notes.

May 20, 2026 · 4 min read
Quick copy

Click a symbol below to copy it instantly. A confirmation message will appear when it is on your clipboard.

Use the MacBook keyboard shortcut

On most MacBook keyboards, press Option + Shift + 8 to type °. The shortcut works in Notes, Pages, Numbers, Google Docs, browser forms, and most email apps.

If your keyboard layout is different

Some international layouts can behave differently. If the shortcut does not insert the degree sign, press Control + Command + Space, search for “degree”, and choose the symbol from Character Viewer.

Good temperature formatting

Write temperatures as 72°F, 21°C, or 180°. Avoid using a small letter o or a zero because those are different characters and can look unprofessional in specs or recipes.

Related symbol collections

You may also want to browse our measurement symbols. These collections help you compare similar characters before copying one into your document.

Use it for temperatures and angles

the symbol appears in temperatures, angles, map coordinates, recipes, weather notes, and technical measurements. In casual writing, it usually sits directly after the number, such as 72°F or 45°. If you include C or F, keep the unit attached so the value is easy to scan.

What not to type instead

A lowercase o, a zero, or a superscript circle can look similar to the symbol, but they are not the same character. Using the real degree sign helps your text copy cleanly between Word, Google Docs, spreadsheets, email, and web pages.

Quick FAQ

Can I copy and paste it? Yes. Copying the symbol is safe for normal documents, emails, web forms, and design tools. If it appears wrong after pasting, switch to a common font or copy it again from TypeSymbol.com.