How to Type the Plus Minus (±) Symbol on Mac

The plus minus symbol (±) is commonly used in mathematics, science, engineering, and statistics to show a range or margin of error. If you are using a Mac and wondering how to type the ± symbol, this guide will show you several easy methods.

What Is the Plus Minus (±) Symbol Used For?

The ± symbol represents both addition and subtraction. It is often used to:

• Indicate a margin of error (e.g., 10 ± 2)
• Show tolerance levels in measurements
• Represent positive and negative values
• Write mathematical and scientific formulas

How to Type the Plus Minus Symbol on Mac

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut (Fastest Way)

The easiest way to type the plus minus symbol on a Mac is by using a keyboard shortcut:

Option (⌥) + Shift (⇧) + =

This will instantly produce the symbol:

±

Method 2: Using the Emoji & Symbols Viewer

Mac includes a built-in character viewer that lets you insert special symbols.

1. Click where you want to insert the symbol
2. Press Control (⌃) + Command (⌘) + Space
3. The Emoji & Symbols viewer will open
4. Search for plus minus
5. Double-click the ± symbol to insert it

Method 3: Copy and Paste

If you only need the symbol once, you can simply copy and paste it:

±

This method works in any app, including Pages, Word, Excel, Google Docs, and WordPress.

Using the Plus Minus Symbol in WordPress

You can use the ± symbol in WordPress without any special plugins:

• Paste it directly into the editor
• Use it in headings, paragraphs, or tables
• Works in both Visual and HTML editors

Example:

The temperature is 25 ± 2 degrees.

Common Problems and Fixes

Symbol Not Appearing Correctly

If the symbol does not display properly:

• Make sure your font supports special characters
• Use UTF-8 encoding (default in WordPress)
• Try copying from the Emoji & Symbols viewer

Conclusion

Typing the plus minus (±) symbol on a Mac is simple once you know the shortcut. Whether you use the keyboard combination, the Emoji & Symbols viewer, or copy and paste, Mac makes it easy to add this useful symbol anywhere you need it.

Quick recap:

• Shortcut: Option + Shift + =
• Symbols Viewer: Control + Command + Space
• Copy & Paste: ±