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How to Insert Symbols and Special Characters in Word

Tap through each step to insert a symbol in Word.

  1. Place your cursor where the symbol should go

    Click to place your cursor at the spot where you want to insert the special character.

  2. Click "Symbol" on the Insert tab

    Click the "Symbol" icon at the far right of the ribbon's "Insert" tab.

  3. Pick from the list, or click "More Symbols" for the full set

    If the symbol you need isn't in the quick list, click "More Symbols" to search the complete character table.

  4. Switch fonts to find decorative symbols

    Changing the font to something like Wingdings or Webdings reveals picture-style symbols such as arrows, stars, and checkmarks.

  5. Why it's useful

    You can find and insert special characters that aren't on your keyboard — copyright (©), trademark (®), arrows, math symbols, and more — directly inside Word instead of copying and pasting them from elsewhere.

When you need a symbol that isn't on your keyboard

Rather than searching the web for a character and copying it over, Word's built-in Symbol dialog lets you browse and insert copyright marks, trademark signs, arrows, mathematical operators, and hundreds of other characters directly, with a live preview before you commit.

Assign a shortcut to symbols you use often

For a symbol you insert regularly, clicking "Shortcut Key" inside the Symbol dialog and assigning a key combination means you can type it instantly from then on without reopening the menu every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assign a keyboard shortcut to a symbol I use often?

Yes — click "Shortcut Key" in the Symbol dialog and assign the key combination you want, and from then on you can type the symbol directly without opening the menu again.

Does AutoCorrect ever convert text into a symbol automatically?

Yes — some characters convert automatically when you type a specific combination, like typing "(c)" and having it turn into "©" through AutoCorrect.