When you need the ≈ symbol, there are several ways to insert it into your document. The most common is using a shortcut with the numeric keypad, which we’ll explore in detail. But we’ve got several other methods for you, too, including using a dialog box, a keyboard shortcut, AutoCorrect, and even an equation.
What does the ≈ symbol mean?
The ≈ symbol means approximately equal to or almost equal to. You’ll find it in mathematical notation when indicating that two expressions are approximately equal. There are six different ways to type this character, so keep reading.
We tested all of these methods within Microsoft Word 2016, 2019, 2021, and Word 365 on Windows. While some might not be as intuitive or as fast, they work either way.
Inserting the ≈ symbol via Alt codes
If you’re comfortable with a keyboard shortcut, then Alt + 247 is the quickest way to type the ≈ symbol. Just make sure that NumLock is turned on. Otherwise, you won’t get the correct symbol (we’ll show you how to fix that problem, too).
Hold down the Alt key, then press and hold down the number 247 on your numeric keypad. It should look like the symbol ≈ appears at the end of the sentence. Release both keys.
Make sure that your NumLock key is on, otherwise you’ll get the wrong symbol (or nothing at all). Press and hold down the Alt key, then press and hold the numbers 2-4-7.
How do I insert ≈ if I can’t use my numeric keypad?
If your numeric keypad doesn’t have an Alt key, you’ll have to rely on another method. First, ensure that NumLock is turned on by looking for the indicator light. If not, press NumLock and then Spacebar until the indicator turns green.
Inserting the ≈ symbol via Insert Symbol
If your keyboard isn’t working, you could always try inserting the symbol manually. This is done via the Insert Symbol dialog box in Word. It’s located inside the Insert menu bar (Word > Insert > Symbols > More Symbols), or simply by pressing Alt + Ctrl + Shift + S.
Select Insert Symbol from the Insert menu. Locate the ≈ character (it looks like a squiggly line) near the bottom of the dialog box. Click it once, and then click Insert.
Inserting the ≈ symbol via a custom keyboard shortcut
Another way to type the ≈ symbol is to assign a custom keyboard shortcut for it. Once assigned, you can reuse it over and over again without having to hunt around for it.
From the File menu in Word, choose Options. Choose Customize Ribbon and then select “Customize…” from the Keyboard tab. In the left-hand drop-down list, select “All commands,” and then scroll through the commands in the right-hand column until you find “Insert Symbol.” Assign a custom keyboard shortcut — like “Alt + Ctrl + =” — and save your settings.
You’ll want to repeat this step to assign a shortcut for the ≈ symbol. Then, just hit your newly created keyboard shortcut to insert the ≈ symbol anywhere.
Inserting the ≈ symbol via AutoCorrect
Word has a built-in AutoCorrect entry for typing the ≈ symbol, which maps a typed abbreviation (like “aprx”) to the actual ≈ symbol. We weren’t able to locate this particular AutoCorrect mapping, but you might already have one set up.
To create your own AutoCorrect entries, navigate to the File menu in Word, choose Options, and select Proofing under the left-hand navigation panel. From there, choose AutoCorrect Options.
Under the AutoCorrect tab, click the “Add” button to add your own abbreviation to its mapped value. You might prefer something like “apx” to map to the ≈ symbol.
Inserting the ≈ symbol via Equation tools
You can also create equations in Word. Within the Equation tool, the approximately equal symbol is available. To begin, navigate to the Insert menu in Word and choose Insert Equation. A new equation will appear on your screen.
Then, from the Insert menu in Word, choose Insert Equation. A new equation will appear on your screen. You’ll find the approximately equal symbol inside the equation editor, along with many others.
Copy-paste the ≈ symbol
Finally, you can always copy and paste the ≈ symbol wherever you’d like to use it. If you know where to find the symbol, then you can simply copy and paste it wherever you’d like to place it.
That said, if you can’t figure out where to find it, you can search for it online. For example, if you search for “approximate symbol” on Google, you’ll find the ≈ symbol among other options. Copy and paste it into any application where you need to use it.