The two easiest ways to insert the em dash symbol is to either use the alt code shortcut or simply copy and paste it.
Today you’ll learn how to type this symbol using the alt code. However, you can use the button below to copy the em dash symbol.
However, for a step-by-step guide on how to use the Alt Code to type this symbol with your keyboard, keep reading.
The Em dash Alt Code is 0151.
Using the em dash alt code, you can type this (—) on any Windows keyboard or PC. This code is designed to be used to type any symbol that has no dedicated key on the keyboard. You can do this by pressing and holding the Alt key whilst typing the alt code (0151 for the — symbol) using the numeric keypad.
Obey the instructions below to type the this symbol [—] on a Windows PC using the alt code:
- Step 1: Place your insertion pointer where you need to type the em dash symbol.
- Step 2: Press and hold one of the Alt keys on your keyboard.
- Step 3: Whilst holding on to the Alt key, use the numeric keypad and type the em dash symbol alt code (0151).
- Step 4: Release the Alt key after typing the Alt code and you’ll immediately see the — symbol inserted.
Note that you must use the numeric keypad to type the alt code (0151). You must also turn on your NumLock key to be able to use the numeric keypad. If you are using a Laptop that does not have the numeric keypad, you can press Fn+NmLk keys simultaneously to turn on the hidden numeric keypad for laptops with smaller keyboards.
This is how you may use the Alt Code method to type the em dash anywhere on your Windows PC including Microsoft Word, Excel, One Note, Sticky Note, PowerPoint or even on your browser such as Google Docs.
You can see this post for more alternative ways to type this symbol.
Em dash shortcut for Mac
The alt code method works fine on the Windows PC. However, if you want this symbol on Mac, there’s a shortcut for you.
The em dash shortcut for Mac is Comand+M.
To type this symbol, just press and hold the Option key whilst you type the letter M on your Mac keyboard.
