5 Simple Tricks to Insert Degree Symbol in Excel

Introduction to Using Special Characters

In the world of data analysis and presentation, Excel has become an indispensable tool for many. However, certain tasks like inserting special characters such as the degree symbol (°) can sometimes be a small hurdle. If you’re dealing with temperature data, angular measurements, or any application where the degree symbol is necessary, you might find it challenging to insert this symbol into your Excel spreadsheets. This blog post will explore five simple tricks to insert the degree symbol in Excel, enhancing your productivity and accuracy.

1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts

One of the quickest ways to insert the degree symbol in Excel is through keyboard shortcuts. Here are the steps for Windows and Mac:

• Windows: Hold down Alt, then type 0176 on your numeric keypad. Release Alt, and the ° symbol will appear.
• Mac: Press Option + Shift + 8 simultaneously to insert the degree symbol.

🎹 Note: Ensure you are using a numeric keypad for the Windows shortcut; laptop users might need to press an additional function key to access the numeric keypad.

2. Inserting Symbols Directly from Excel’s Toolbar

If you prefer using Excel’s interface, follow these steps:

1. Go to the “Insert” tab.
2. Click on “Symbol.”
3. From the “Symbol” dialogue box, select “Normal Text” under Font if not already selected.
4. Scroll to find the degree symbol (or type in “00B0” in the “Character code” box).
5. Click “Insert” and then “Close.”

The symbol will be placed at your cursor’s position in the spreadsheet.

3. The CHAR Function

Excel’s CHAR function can convert numeric codes into their corresponding characters. Here’s how you can use it to insert the degree symbol:

• In a cell, type =CHAR(176) for Windows or =CHAR(167) for Mac. The degree symbol will appear in that cell.

This function is particularly useful when you need to insert the symbol multiple times in different cells.

🔍 Note: The CHAR function can be used in formulas to automate the insertion of the degree symbol in calculations.

4. Custom Autocorrect Option

Excel’s Autocorrect feature can be used to automatically insert special characters like the degree symbol:

1. Navigate to File > Options > Proofing > Autocorrect Options.
2. In the “Replace text as you type” section, enter a unique sequence like “deg” in the “Replace” box, then the ° symbol in the “With” box.
3. Click “Add,” then “OK.”

Now, whenever you type “deg” in your Excel sheet, it will automatically be replaced with the degree symbol.

5. Copy-Paste Method

Sometimes, the simplest method is copying the symbol from a website, Word document, or any other source where it appears:

1. Find the degree symbol (°) on a webpage or document.
2. Right-click and copy the symbol.
3. Return to your Excel sheet, click where you want to insert the symbol, and paste it (usually by pressing Ctrl + V).

This method is quick but can be less efficient if you need to insert the symbol multiple times throughout your work.

In conclusion, inserting the degree symbol in Excel is easy once you know the tricks. Whether you prefer keyboard shortcuts, using Excel's toolbar, the CHAR function, customizing Autocorrect, or simple copy-pasting, there's a method for everyone. These techniques not only save time but also enhance the professionalism of your work. Remember, mastering small tricks like these can significantly improve your efficiency in data management and presentation.