Inserting the degree symbol in Google Docs on a Mac is a simple task that requires just a few clicks or keystrokes. If you frequently find yourself needing to add this tiny yet crucial symbol, there are a few easy methods you can use. Whether you prefer using keyboard shortcuts or accessing the special characters menu, you can quickly insert the degree symbol and continue with your work seamlessly.
How to Insert the Degree Symbol in Google Docs on Mac
If you’re writing about temperature or angles, the degree symbol (°) is essential. Here’s how you can insert it in Google Docs using a Mac.
Step 1: Open your Google Docs document
First, open your Google Docs file where you want to insert the degree symbol.
Ensure that your document is fully loaded and you’ve clicked on the area where you want the degree symbol to appear. It’s important to have your cursor in the right place since the symbol will appear exactly where the cursor is positioned.
Step 2: Use the Google Docs toolbar
Click on "Insert" in the toolbar at the top of your screen.
This will open a dropdown menu where you can find various options such as adding images, tables, and, importantly, special characters.
Step 3: Select “Special characters”
From the dropdown menu, choose "Special characters" to open the special characters dialog box.
In this dialog, you can search for and select from a wide variety of symbols. The interface is user-friendly, with categories and a search bar to help you quickly find what you need.
Step 4: Search for “degree”
In the search bar of the special characters dialog, type "degree" to find the degree symbol.
The degree symbol should appear prominently on the list. You can select it to insert it into your document. This method is foolproof and ensures you get the exact symbol you’re looking for.
Step 5: Click the degree symbol
Once you see the degree symbol, click on it to insert it into your document.
The symbol will be placed exactly where your cursor was positioned. Once inserted, you can continue typing or formatting your document as needed.
After completing these steps, your degree symbol will appear in the desired location in your Google Docs document. This simple process allows you to convey information accurately, whether you’re discussing temperature or angles, without any hassles.
Tips for Inserting the Degree Symbol in Google Docs on Mac
- Keyboard Shortcut: Use the keyboard shortcut Option + Shift + 8 for a quicker way to insert the degree symbol.
- Copy and Paste: If you use the degree symbol often, you can copy and paste it from another source.
- Customize Special Characters: Bookmark the special characters menu for faster access in future edits.
- Learn Other Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with other special character shortcuts to save time.
- Use Voice Typing: Enable voice typing in Google Docs and say “degree symbol” to insert it automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a keyboard shortcut to insert the degree symbol?
Yes, on a Mac, you can use Option + Shift + 8 to insert the degree symbol quickly.
Is there a faster way to access special characters?
Yes, you can bookmark the special characters menu in Google Docs to access it more swiftly.
Can I customize keyboard shortcuts for symbols?
While you can’t customize shortcuts in Google Docs, you can use external tools like TextExpander to create custom shortcuts.
What if I’m using a different word processor on my Mac?
Most word processors on Mac also allow inserting symbols via a special characters menu or using keyboard shortcuts.
Can I use voice typing to insert symbols?
Yes, Google Docs’ voice typing feature can recognize commands like “degree symbol” to insert symbols.
Summary
- Open Google Docs
- Click "Insert"
- Select "Special characters"
- Search "degree"
- Click symbol
Conclusion
Being able to insert the degree symbol in Google Docs on a Mac is a handy skill that can save you time and frustration, especially if you often find yourself working with temperatures or measurements. While the process is straightforward, mastering a few additional tips—like using keyboard shortcuts or bookmarking the special characters menu—can streamline your workflow even further. Remember, Google Docs is versatile and offers various ways to enhance your document creation process. By employing these methods, you ensure your documents are professional and accurate, whether you’re documenting scientific data or simply writing about the weather. If you’re eager to learn more tips and tricks for Google Docs, exploring the platform’s help resources or forums can be a great way to deepen your understanding and efficiency. Happy typing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech content online for more than ten years. He enjoys writing about Google Docs in addition to many other applications and devices and has cumulatively covered Google’s word-processing application in hundreds of different articles.
He has been published on dozens of popular websites, and his works have accumulated millions of pageviews.
While focused primarily on tutorials and guides for popular electronics like the iPhone and iPad, as well as common applications like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, he covers topics across the entire technology spectrum.
You can read his bio here.