Arrows (↑ ↓ ← → ↔ ↕ ⇄ ⇆) are essential symbols for navigation, direction, and graphical representation in documents, spreadsheets, and coding. But how do you quickly type them on different operating systems?
This guide will show you how to type arrow symbols using Alt codes, Unicode, and special keyboard shortcuts on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Alt Code Arrows for Windows
Windows users can type arrow symbols using Alt codes with the numeric keypad.
How to Use Alt Codes on Windows
- Enable Num Lock on your keyboard.
- Hold down the Alt key.
- Type the Alt code using the numeric keypad.
- Release Alt, and the arrow symbol appears.
Complete List of Arrow Alt Codes on Windows
| Arrow Symbol | Alt Code |
|---|---|
| ↑ (Up Arrow) | Alt + 24 |
| ↓ (Down Arrow) | Alt + 25 |
| → (Right Arrow) | Alt + 26 |
| ← (Left Arrow) | Alt + 27 |
| ↔ (Left-Right Arrow) | Alt + 29 |
| ↕ (Up-Down Arrow) | Alt + 18 |
| ⇄ (Right-Left Arrow) | Alt + 8596 |
| ⇆ (Leftward Paired Arrow) | Alt + 8646 |
📌 Tip: If you don’t have a numeric keypad, open Character Map (Win + R → type "charmap" → Enter), search for arrows, and copy the symbol.
Typing Arrow Symbols on Mac
Mac users can insert arrow symbols using Character Viewer or Unicode shortcuts.
Method 1: Character Viewer
- Press Control + Command + Space to open the Character Viewer.
- Search “arrow” in the search bar.
- Click the arrow symbol to insert it.
Method 2: Unicode Shortcuts for Arrows
Use Unicode for arrow symbols in compatible applications:
| Arrow Symbol | Mac Shortcut |
|---|---|
| ↑ (Up Arrow) | Option + 2191 |
| ↓ (Down Arrow) | Option + 2193 |
| → (Right Arrow) | Option + 2192 |
| ← (Left Arrow) | Option + 2190 |
| ↔ (Left-Right Arrow) | Option + 2194 |
| ↕ (Up-Down Arrow) | Option + 2195 |
How to Type Arrow Symbols on Linux (Ubuntu & Others)
Linux users can type arrow symbols using Unicode input or the Compose Key.
Method 1: Unicode Input
- Press Ctrl + Shift + U.
- Type the Unicode number (e.g., 2192 for →).
- Press Enter, and the symbol appears.
Method 2: Using the Compose Key
If your system has the Compose Key enabled, use this sequence:
| Arrow Symbol | Compose Key Sequence |
|---|---|
| ↑ (Up Arrow) | Compose + u + a |
| ↓ (Down Arrow) | Compose + d + a |
| → (Right Arrow) | Compose + r + a |
| ← (Left Arrow) | Compose + l + a |
📌 Tip: Enable the Compose Key in Keyboard Settings if it’s not active.
Typing Arrows in Word, Google Docs, and Browsers
You can insert arrow symbols in:
✅ Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
✅ Google Docs, Sheets, Slides
✅ LibreOffice Writer, Calc, Impress
✅ Web Browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari, Brave, Opera, DuckDuckGo, Ecosia)
Microsoft Word Method
- Go to Insert → Symbol → More Symbols.
- Select Arrows from the subset.
- Click your desired arrow and Insert.
Google Docs Method
- Click Insert → Special Characters.
- Type “arrow” in the search box.
- Select your arrow symbol.
FAQs About Alt Code Arrows
What is the Alt code for arrow symbols?
The Alt codes for arrows are Alt + 24 (↑), Alt + 25 (↓), Alt + 26 (→), and Alt + 27 (←).
How do I type arrow symbols on Mac?
Use Character Viewer (Control + Command + Space) or Option + Unicode shortcuts.
How do I type arrows in Google Docs?
Use Insert → Special Characters → Search “arrow” → Select → Insert.
Can I use arrows in Microsoft Excel and Word?
Yes, use Alt codes, Insert → Symbol, or Unicode shortcuts.
How do I type arrows on Linux?
Use Unicode input (Ctrl + Shift + U + 2192) or the Compose Key.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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