How to Make Signs With Alt Commands

One of the little-known tricks in Windows and Mac OS is the ability to type special characters directly from the keyboard. This is useful for typing in foreign languages, creating special code or giving your text a personalized look. The process is simple. All you need is a list of the codes---and a bit of fancy finger work.

Instructions

Directions for Windows and Mac OS

1. Determine your operating system. The process of creating Alt characters differs slightly between Windows and Mac OS. In Windows, hold down the "Alt" key while typing the numbers with the keypad. In Mac OS, hold the "Alt" or "Option" key while pressing a key or series of keys.

2. Get a list of Alt character codes. Every special character not represented on the keyboard has a numeric code or input sequence associated with it. Although it is possible to memorize them, it's easier to refer to a chart. Follow the links included in Resources or open "Charmap.exe" in Windows for a complete list.

3. Type Alt characters in Windows. Open the program you want to use for typing your special characters. Make sure that "Num Lock" is on to enable your numeric keypad. While holding the left Alt key down, type the code with the keypad. For example, to type "A" with a tilde, hold down Alt while typing "0195" in sequence.

4. Type Alt characters in Mac OS. In Mac OS, the process is slightly different. Open the program to type in your special characters. Hold down the Alt key while typing one or more keys on the keyboard. Sometimes, the shift key is held down or another key is typed after the Alt key is released. For example, to type an upside-down question mark, hold down Shift+Alt and press "?." To type an accented "u," hold down Alt and press "e." Release Alt and type "u." For an uppercase version, hold down Shift after releasing.

Resources

• Mac Special Characters
• Windows Special Characters