How to Type the Symbol for Degree Celsius on Your Calculator and Other Devices

Whether you're working on a scientific calculator, graphing calculator, or utilizing a computer or smartphone, knowing how to type the degree Celsius symbol (°C) is essential for accurate data representation. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you input this symbol effortlessly.

General Approaches

The method to type the degree Celsius symbol can vary depending on the device you're using. Below are some general approaches to input the symbol accurately.

Standard Scientific Calculators

Many scientific calculators do not have a dedicated degree Celsius symbol. In most cases, you can simply write the temperature followed by the 'C' without the symbol. However, if your calculator has a specific function for temperature or a dedicated button for units, refer to its manual for precise instructions.

Graphing Calculators

For graphing calculators, you might find the degree symbol in the symbols menu. Look for a button labeled 'SYM' or 'SPECIAL' and browse through the options to find the ° symbol. Alternatively, some calculators may allow you to type the degree symbol by holding a specific key or using a combination of keys.

Using a Computer or Smartphone

Depending on your device, here are some methods to type the degree Celsius symbol:

Windows

To type the degree symbol on a Windows device, you can use a numerical keypad. Here’s the process:

Hold down the Alt key. On the numeric keypad, type 0176. Release the Alt key.

To type '°C', simply follow the steps above and then type 'C'.

Mac

On a Mac, you can type the degree symbol by using a keyboard shortcut. Follow these steps:

Hold down the Option key and the Shift key. Press the 8 key.

This will produce the degree symbol (°). To type '°C', just add the letter 'C' after the symbol.

Smartphones

If you're using a smartphone, you can access the degree symbol by switching to the symbols keyboard. Typically, you'll need to tap a key labeled 'SYM' or 'SPECIAL' to access the symbols menu. Here’s how you can do it:

Navigate to the settings of your device and click on Keyboard. Go to Input Sources and click Edit…. Make sure 'Show input menu in menu bar' is active. Click Done. Click the Keyboard icon in the upper-right corner of the screen to open the keyboard viewer. Hold down the Shift and Option keys on your keyboard. The viewer will show the optional key locations. To type the degree symbol (°), hold down Shift and Option, and then press the '8' key. Add 'C' to form '°C'.

Conclusion

By following these methods, you can easily type the degree Celsius symbol on your calculator or other devices. Whether you're working on a scientific calculator, graphing calculator, Windows, Mac, or smartphone, these techniques will help ensure accurate representation of temperatures in degrees Celsius.

For more detailed instructions or specific shortcuts for your device, refer to the manual or settings menu of your calculator or device.