How to Type the Degree Symbol in Word on an iPad
Question details
The user needs to insert a degree symbol into a Microsoft Word document while typing on an iPad.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Document Editing
- Observed behavior
- The user wants to find and use the degree symbol which is hidden within the iPad's default on-screen keyboard layout.
Ensure your document is open in edit mode and tap the screen where you want the degree symbol to appear so the iPad keyboard pops up.
Using the On-Screen Numeric Keyboard
Access the hidden degree symbol by holding down the zero key on the default iPadOS keyboard.
The iPad's default on-screen keyboard contains many hidden alternate characters. You can easily find the degree symbol tucked away within the numeric keyboard layout.
Tap the '123' button located in the bottom-left corner of your iPad screen keyboard to switch from the standard letter layout to numbers.
Locate the '0' (zero) key. Tap and hold your finger on it until a pop-up menu showing alternate characters appears above the key.
Without lifting your finger from the screen, slide over to highlight the degree symbol (°), then release to insert it into your Word document.
Edit Documents and Insert Symbols Easily with WPS Office
WPS Office for iPad provides a highly optimized, touch-friendly interface for mobile document editing. Easily insert special characters, format text, and manage your files on the go.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Get WPS Office for free from the Apple App Store and install it on your iPad.
- 2. Open your document: Launch the app and open an existing Word file or create a brand new Writer document.
- 3. Insert the degree symbol: Tap the text area, switch to the '123' numeric layout on your iPad keyboard, and long-press '0' to insert the degree symbol.
- 4. Save seamlessly: Save your document locally or to your preferred cloud storage without losing any Word formatting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does a different symbol appear when I hold the zero key?
If holding the zero key shows different symbols or no symbols at all, you might be using a third-party keyboard app. Switch back to the default Apple English keyboard by tapping the globe icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Does this method work for Excel and PowerPoint on the iPad?
Yes, because the on-screen keyboard is an iPadOS system feature, you can use the exact same long-press zero method to insert the degree symbol into Excel spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, or any other iPad application.
Can I insert a degree symbol using the Insert menu in Word for iPad?
While desktop versions of Word have a dedicated 'Insert Symbol' menu on the ribbon, the iPad version relies on the iOS keyboard for most standard special characters. Using the long-press trick on the keyboard is the primary and fastest way to insert a degree symbol.
