What character is represented by that code depends on the font in use at the current time. For instance, typing Alt+171 doesn't really insert the one-half symbol it inserts the character corresponding to the ANSI code 171. What it does is provide a quick way to add a character in a specific font.
The important thing to remember is that this technique doesn't actually insert symbols. You may be wondering if there is a handy directory of all the "symbol numbers" that can be used to produce different characters in this manner. I don’t use this method because when you move between different computers (for example in your staffroom) you may have to recreate the shortcuts for them to work.A number of symbols can be accessed by pressing Alt and the symbol's corresponding number on the numeric keypad (such as Alt+171 for the one-half symbol). See Assign a shortcut key to a symbol or special character on Microsoft Office Online for the details. The cheat sheet has a brief version with the most common symbols listed, and a full version with more symbols.Īn alternative method is to create a shortcut key for commonly used symbols. So, here is a Maths Symbols Cheat Sheet ( PDF, 258Kb) that you can download, print and place next to your computer(s). You’re unlikely to remember these codes, except for the most common ones. That is, the Alt key and the ‘x’ key at the same time. In the “Code then Alt + x” method you type in a four digit code (you don’t have to use the number pad this time) and then press Alt + x. The second method can be used to produce the symbols shown in the first method, as well as some further symbols. This method is referred to as “ Alt +”.įor example, pressing and holding the Alt key whilst typing 0215 on the number pad will insert the × symbol.Ĭommon mathematics symbols that can be entered using this method: Symbol Many symbols can be inserted by pressing and holding the Alt key whilst typing in a four digit code on the number pad (that is the calculator like section on the right of most keyboards, make sure Num Lock is on). Both methods need you to remember some codes (hence I’ve supplied a cheat sheet to download and print out). The second method allows for more symbols. That is, the first method is slightly easier but will not insert every symbol. The two methods shown here complement each other. This post shows you how to insert symbols like ×, ÷ and π quickly, on most computers (a Windows PC running Microsoft office). For example, x (the letter) is not a good substitue for × (the multiplication symbol). One of the problems I see is that many people don’t know how to insert symbols into their document. It’s not designed for the job, there are better options but Word is the easiest to learn and has the greatest compatibility – making it easy to share documents.
Many teachers use Microsoft Word to create worksheets.
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