How Do You Make Symbols with the Keyboard? | Easy Typing Tips

A Friendly Guide to Typing Magic

Focus Keyword: how do you make symbols with the keyboard

Slug (Alias): how-do-you-make-symbols-with-the-keyboard

Meta Description: Learn how to make symbols with your keyboard using simple shortcuts. Master hidden characters, ASCII tricks, and Unicode hacks with this friendly guide.

Why Learn Keyboard Symbols?

Symbols like @, ©, ★, and ✓ aren’t just eye candy — they can help personalize your content, improve clarity, or add that touch of flair to your designs, messages, or code. Whether you’re a writer, developer, or keyboard customizer, knowing how to create these symbols can save time and boost creativity.

1. Use Shift + Number Keys

Simple symbols can be typed with the Shift key:

• Shift + 2 = @
• Shift + 3 = #
• Shift + 8 = *
• Shift + 9 = (
• Shift + 0 = )

2. Use Alt Codes (Windows)

Hold down the Alt key and type a number on the numeric keypad:

• Alt + 0153 = ™
• Alt + 0169 = ©
• Alt + 0174 = ®
• Alt + 0134 = †
• Alt + 0149 = •

Note: This only works on Windows with a full keyboard layout.

3. Use Character Viewer (Mac)

For Mac users, press Control + Command + Space to bring up the Emoji & Symbols viewer. This lets you insert emojis, arrows, currency signs, and more.

4. Use Unicode Shortcuts

In modern systems, Unicode allows you to enter a wide variety of symbols using HTML or system shortcuts. Example:

• ✓ = ✓
• ★ = ★
• ♥ = ♥

This method is ideal for developers and WordPress bloggers editing in HTML view.

5. Bonus: Fun Symbols You Can Copy & Paste

No need to remember shortcuts? Just copy-paste these into your document:

• ☕ ☀ ✈ ❄ ♫ ✉ ☂ ⚡ ⌛

Pro Tip: Bookmark a site like CopyPasteCharacter for fast access.

6. Want More Custom Control?

As a keyboard engineer, I always recommend a programmable keyboard. With tools like VIA or QMK firmware, you can assign your favorite symbols to any key. It’s next-level control — and perfect for coders or content creators.

If you’re into custom keyboards, check out our collection of metal keycaps — and type symbols in style.