To type the cent sign (¢):
- Windows: Press Alt + 0162 (on numeric keypad)
- Mac: Press Option + 4
- Android / iPhone: Press and hold the dollar ($), then drag to ¢
- Chromebook: Ctrl + Shift + U, 00A2, Enter
If you don’t have the numeric keyboard, use the Character Map / Character Viewer to copy and paste the ¢ sign quickly.
Why You Might Want the Cent Symbol
Less common today than either the $ or € signs, the cent sign (¢) is still used when quoting prices, particularly on receipts, and in inventory heavy contexts such as describing fuel efficiency or automotive advertisements.
Modern keyboards lack it, but all major platforms provide simple methods for inserting it with keyboard shortcuts or symbol palettes.
This tested 2025 guide will show you how to type the cent symbol on Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, and Chromebook devices step by step.
How to Make a Cent Sign on Windows
Application (Fastest Method) – With the help of Alt code shortcut.
Ensure NumLock is on.
If you click the decimal character in this list, it will appear in your document.
Note: This only works on a keyboard with a numeric keypad. Alt codes will not produce special characters without it.
No Numeric Keypad?
Use the built-in Character Map:
- Launch Character Map: Open Start › search “Character Map.”
- Choose a font (like Arial).
- Swipe down to ¢ → Tap on Select → Mark.
- Paste it with Ctrl + V where necessary.
Bonus Choices (in Word / Office Apps)
- 00A2 + Alt + X → ¢
- Ctrl + / then C (Microsoft Word or Outlook)
Pro Tip: Add the cent sign to your autocorrect dictionary for quick access.
How to Type the Cent-Sign Symbol on Mac
Keyboard Shortcut (Fastest)
Hold Option + 4 → ¢ will appear immediately.
This works across Documents, Mail, Notes, and Browsers.
Using the Character Viewer
- Open Edit › Emoji & Symbols (or Command + Control + Space).
- Select Currency Symbols in the sidebar or search “cent.”
- Double-click ¢ to insert it.
You can also Add to Favorites within Character Viewer for quick access!
How to Get the Cent Symbol on Android or iPhone
The ¢ is unexpectedly easy to type on mobile – it’s tucked behind the $ key.
Steps (works on most keyboards):
- Tap ?123 (Android) or 123 (iPhone) to access symbols.
- Tap and hold the $ key.
- Slide your finger to ¢ and release.
Note: Options may vary depending on your keyboard layout and region.
Some keyboards (Gboard or SwiftKey) display other currencies – €, £, ¥, ₹ – in the same popup.
How to Type the Cent Symbol on a Chromebook
You can input special characters on Chrome OS using Unicode input:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + U
- Type 00A2
- Press Enter → ¢ appears
Note: This technique works in most apps (Google Docs, Gmail, text fields that accept Unicode), but not all input boxes support it.
Related Shortcuts for Other Symbols
| Symbol | Windows Alt Code | Mac Shortcut | Chromebook Unicode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree (°) | Alt + 0176 | Option + Shift + 8 | Ctrl + Shift + U → 00B0 |
| Division (÷) | Alt + 0247 | Option + Shift + /** | Ctrl + Shift + U → 00F7 |
| Pound (£) | Alt + 0163 | Option + 3 | Ctrl + Shift + U → 00A3 |
Alt codes (ASCII Code) – Use Shift + Alt + 4 to enter the dollar symbol ($).
Summary: Typing ¢ Is a Surprisingly Manageable Process
Although the cent sign is not displayed directly on modern keyboards, the only thing you need to remember are these shortcuts – then you can use it anywhere:
- Windows: Alt + 0162
- Mac: Option + 4
- Mobile: Hold $ → ¢
- Chromebook: Ctrl + Shift + U → 00A2, then Enter
If shortcuts don’t work in your app, simply copy ¢ from the Character Map or Character Viewer.
Perfect for price lists, currency calculations, or overseas content creation.
FAQs
Q1. How do I type a cent sign on my Chromebook?
Do step 2 (copy below): press Ctrl + Shift + U, type 00A2, then press Enter → ¢.
Q2. What if I don’t have a built-in numeric keyboard on my Windows?
Use Character Map or type 00A2, then Alt + X in Microsoft Word.
Q3. How do I type degrees (°) in a browser?
- Windows: Alt + 0176
- Mac: Option + Shift + 8
- Chromebook: Ctrl + Shift + U → 00B0
Q4. My name is ÷ and I want to use the division sign in my name, but holding ( ) only turns on sound control.
- Windows: Alt + 0247
- Mac: Option + Shift + /**
- Chromebook: Ctrl + Shift + U → 00F7
Q5. Is there any way I can save the cent sign for fast access on Mac?
Yes, open Character Viewer, highlight ¢, then click Add to Favorites for one-click insertion next time.
Louis Mugan is a seasoned technology writer with a talent for turning complicated ideas into clear, practical guidance. He focuses on helping everyday readers stay confident in a world where tech moves fast. His style is approachable, steady, and built on real understanding.
He has spent years writing for platforms like EasyTechLife, where he covers gadgets, software, digital trends, and everyday tech solutions. His articles focus on clarity, real-world usefulness, and helping people understand how technology actually fits into their lives.
Outside of his regular columns, Louis explores emerging tools, reviews products, and experiments with new tech so his readers don’t have to. His steady, friendly approach has made him a reliable voice for anyone trying to keep up with modern technology. get in touch at louismugan@gmail.com
