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Plus Minus Symbol Alt Code – How to Type ± on Windows, Mac, and Ubuntu

The plus-minus symbol (±) is frequently used in mathematics, engineering, and statistics to indicate a range of possible values. If you regularly need this symbol, knowing the plus-minus symbol Alt code and other shortcuts can help you type it quickly.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to type the ± symbol on Windows, Mac, and Ubuntu/Linux using Alt codes, keyboard shortcuts, and character tools.

How to Type the Plus Minus Symbol (±) on Windows – Alt Codes

Windows users can insert special characters using Alt codes with the numeric keypad.

Plus-Minus Symbol Alt Code for Windows

  • ± Symbol → Alt + 0177

Steps to Type the ± Symbol Using an Alt Code

  1. Ensure Num Lock is enabled on your keyboard.
  2. Hold down the Alt key.
  3. Type 0177 on the numeric keypad.
  4. Release Alt, and the ± symbol appears.

📌 Note: This method requires a numeric keypad. If you’re using a laptop without a keypad, enable Num Lock (Fn + Num Lock) or use the on-screen keyboard.

How to Type the Plus Minus Symbol (±) on Mac

Mac users don’t have Alt codes, but they can use a simple Option key shortcut.

Mac Keyboard Shortcut for the ± Symbol

  • ± Symbol → Option + Shift + =

Steps to Insert the Plus Minus Symbol on Mac

  1. Place the cursor where you want to insert the symbol.
  2. Press Option + Shift + = together.
  3. The ± symbol appears instantly.

✅ Bonus Tip: You can also find the ± symbol in Emoji & Symbols Viewer (Cmd + Control + Space).

How to Type the Plus Minus Symbol (±) on Ubuntu/Linux

Linux systems, including Ubuntu, do not support Windows Alt codes. However, you can type the ± symbol using Unicode input or the Compose Key.

Unicode Input Method on Ubuntu

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + U.
  2. Type 00B1 (Unicode for ±).
  3. Press Enter, and the ± symbol appears.

Compose Key Method (Ubuntu/Linux)

  1. Enable the Compose Key in your keyboard settings.
  2. Press Compose, then +, then –.
  3. The ± symbol appears.

Alternative Methods to Insert the ± Symbol

If keyboard shortcuts don’t work, try these alternatives:

Windows Character Map

  1. Open Character Map (Win + R → Type charmap → Press Enter).
  2. Find the ± symbol.
  3. Click Select → Copy, then paste it into your document.

Mac Emoji & Symbols Viewer

  1. Press Cmd + Control + Space to open the Character Viewer.
  2. Search for “plus-minus” and click on the ± symbol to insert it.

Copy and Paste

If nothing works, copy the symbol from here: ± and paste it wherever needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Alt code for the plus minus symbol?
The plus-minus symbol Alt code is Alt + 0177 on Windows.

How do I type the ± symbol on a laptop without a numeric keypad?
Use Windows Character Map, macOS Emoji & Symbols Viewer, or copy and paste the symbol.

How do I insert the ± symbol in Microsoft Word?
Press Alt + 0177 on Windows or Option + Shift + = on Mac. You can also use Insert → Symbol in Word.

Can I use the ± symbol in web browsers and emails?
Yes, the ± symbol works in all web browsers, email clients, and word processors.

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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