The pound symbol (£) is a widely used currency sign primarily associated with British currency. It is also known as the pound sterling symbol or the GBP symbol. If you find yourself needing to type the pound symbol on your computer or mobile device, this step-by-step guide will assist you in achieving that goal seamlessly.
1. Using a Keyboard Shortcut
The most convenient method to type the pound symbol on a computer is by utilizing keyboard shortcuts. Follow these steps based on your operating system:
Windows:
Ensure that the Num Lock key is turned on.
Hold down the Alt key.
On the numeric keypad, enter the code 0163.
Release the Alt key, and the pound symbol (£) will appear.
Mac:
Press the Option key (⌥) + 3 simultaneously.
The pound symbol (£) will be inserted at the cursor’s position.
2. Utilizing Character Map or Character Viewer
If you are unable to type the pound symbol using keyboard shortcuts, you can access the character map or character viewer feature available on most operating systems.
Windows:
Click on the “Start” button and search for “Character Map.”
Open the Character Map application.
Locate the pound symbol (£) within the character map window.
Double-click the symbol to insert it into the desired location.
Mac:
Go to the “Edit” menu within any text-editing program or document.
Select “Emoji & Symbols” or “Special Characters.”
In the pop-up window, find the pound symbol (£) and click on it to insert it into your text.
3. Copy and Paste
Another straightforward method to type the pound symbol is by copying it from another source and pasting it into your document or text field.
Online Sources:
Open a web browser and search for “pound symbol.”
Various websites will display the pound symbol (£).
Select and copy the symbol from one of these sources.
Paste it into your desired location.
Text Documents:
If you have a pound symbol (£) already present in a text document, simply copy it from there and paste it wherever needed.
4. Mobile Devices
Typing the pound symbol on mobile devices can vary depending on the operating system and keyboard app you use. Here’s how to do it on some common platforms:
iOS:
Open the keyboard in any application that allows text input.
Press and hold the dollar sign ($) on the keyboard until additional currency symbols appear.
Slide your finger to select the pound symbol (£) and release it to insert it into your text.
Android:
Open the keyboard in any application that allows text input.
Tap and hold the dollar sign ($) key or the comma (,) key until additional currency symbols are displayed.
Swipe your finger to select the pound symbol (£) and release it to insert it into your text.
Conclusion
Typing the pound symbol (£) is an essential skill for users who frequently deal with British currency or need to reference the symbol in their writing. Whether using keyboard shortcuts, character maps, copying and pasting, or mobile device methods, there are several ways to accomplish this task. By following the step-by-step guide provided above, you can easily access and utilize the pound symbol whenever you require it.
Related Topics:
- Why Does £ Serve as the Pound Symbol?
- Why Is the Dollar So Strong Against the Pound?
- The Meaning Behind the “G” in GBP: A Complete Overview
