A checkmark symbol (✓) is a useful character for creating lists, indicating approval, or marking completion. However, typing a checkmark symbol is not as straightforward as typing a letter or a number. Depending on the application, the operating system, and the font, different methods may be required to insert a checkmark symbol. This article will explain how to type a checkmark symbol in various applications using keyboard shortcuts, alt codes, or special characters.
Table of Contents
Keyboard Shortcuts for Checkmark Symbols
Some applications have built-in keyboard shortcuts for inserting checkmark symbols. For example, in Microsoft Word, you can use the following shortcuts:
- Alt + 0252 for a heavy checkmark (✔)
- Alt + 0254 for a ballot box with check (☑)
- Alt + X after typing the Unicode hex value of the checkmark symbol (such as 2713 for ✓ or 2714 for ✔)
Note that these shortcuts only work with the Num Lock key on and using the numeric keypad. Also, some of these shortcuts may not work in other applications or fonts.
Another option is to use the Emoji Panel in Windows 10, which allows you to insert Unicode characters and emojis in any application. To open the Emoji Panel, press Win + . or Win + ; and then select the Symbols tab. You can then browse or search for the checkmark symbol you want and click on it to insert it.
Alt Codes for Checkmark Symbols
Alt codes are numeric codes that you can use to type special characters and symbols using the keyboard. To use alt codes, you need to hold down the Alt key and type the code on the numeric keypad. For example, to type a bullet point (•), you can press Alt + 0149.
However, alt codes for checkmark symbols are not standardized and may vary depending on the application, the operating system, and the font. For example, you can type a checkmark symbol by pressing Alt + 10003. However, this may not work in some applications or fonts, and you may get a different symbol instead.
One way to find out the alt code for a checkmark symbol is to use the Character Map tool in Windows. To open the Character Map, press Win + R and type charmap. Then, select the font you are using and look for the checkmark symbol you want. You can then see the alt code for that symbol at the bottom of the window.
Alternatively, you can look up the alt codes for various checkmark symbols. However, be aware that some of these codes may not work as expected in some applications or fonts.
Special Characters for Checkmark Symbols
Another way to type a checkmark symbol is to use a special character that represents the symbol. For example, in some fonts, such as Wingdings or Webdings, there are characters that look like checkmark symbols. To use these characters, you need to change the font of the text to the corresponding font and then type the character. For example, to type a checkmark symbol in Wingdings, you can change the font to Wingdings and then press P.
However, this method has some limitations. First, it only works if the font is supported by the application or the website. Second, it may cause confusion or inconsistency if you type other text next to the checkmark symbol, as it will also be in the same font. Third, it may not be compatible with other devices or platforms that do not have the same font installed.
Therefore, a better option is to use a special character that is part of the Unicode standard. Unicode is a universal encoding system that assigns a unique code to every character and symbol in any language or writing system. By using a Unicode character, you can ensure that the checkmark symbol will be displayed correctly regardless of the application, the font, or the device.
To type a Unicode character, you need to know its Unicode hex value, which is a four- or five-digit hexadecimal number that represents the character. For example, the Unicode hex value for a checkmark symbol (✓) is 2713.
Once you know the Unicode hex value, you can type it in different ways depending on the application. For example, in Microsoft Word, you can type the Unicode hex value and then press Alt + X to convert it to the corresponding character. In HTML, you can type &#x followed by the Unicode hex value and then ; to insert the character. In some applications, you may need to use a prefix or a suffix to indicate that you are typing a Unicode character. For example, in Python, you can type \u followed by the Unicode hex value to insert the character.
Conclusion
Typing a checkmark symbol can be challenging, as different applications, operating systems, and fonts may require different methods. However, by using keyboard shortcuts, alt codes, or special characters, you can insert a checkmark symbol in any application. The best option is to use a Unicode character, as it ensures compatibility and consistency across different platforms and devices.