The Sigma symbol (Σ – Uppercase sigma, σ – lowercase sigma) is the eighteenth letter of the Greek alphabet which is used to represent the symbol for standard deviation in math. The names sigma and standard deviation symbol are used interchangeably for this character.
In this tutorial, you’ll learn 4 different ways you can insert the sigma symbol in Word. Without further ado, let’s get started.
See also: How to insert any symbol in Word
Sigma Symbol Quick Rescue
The table below contains the standard deviation symbol (sigma) which you can copy and paste into your Word or Excel document. It also has the alt code and the keyboard shortcut.
| Symbol Name | Sigma |
| Symbol in Uppercase | Σ (Uppercase) |
| Symbol in Lowercase | σ (Lowercase) |
| Sigma Symbol Alt Code | 228 |
| Sigma symbol shortcut for Windows | Alt + 228 |
| Sigma symbol shortcut for Mac | Option + W |
To type the symbol for standard deviation (sigma) in Word using the shortcut, first type the alt code (03C3), then press Alt+X immediately to convert the code into a sigma symbol. Note that this shortcut works in Microsoft Word but not in Excel. However, you can use Alt + 228 to type Sigma anywhere including your browser.
For more ways to insert this and any other symbol into Word or Excel, please keep reading.
How to insert sigma symbol in Word or Excel
There are several methods one can use to insert any symbol into any of the Microsoft Office apps.
However, in this tutorial, you’ll learn some of the easy ways to get the sigma or standard deviation symbol into Word or Excel.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
Using Sigma Symbol Alt Code (For MS Word)
Each and every character or symbol in Microsoft Word has a unique character code that you can use to insert these symbols into Word. This code is well known as the Alt code.
The alt code for the Sigma symbol is 228.
However, just typing this code won’t give you the symbol. Instead, below are the steps to get the sigma symbol into your Word document using the sigma alt code:
- Place the insertion pointer at where you want to insert the sigma symbol.
- Press down the Alt key.
- Type the Sigma symbol Alt code (228) with your numeric keypad.
- Release the Alt key.
It is that simple.
Immediately you press Alt +228 on your keyboard after the alt code, Word will convert the code into a sigma symbol.
Note: If you are using this Alt code method make sure your PC has a separate numeric keypad and that the Num Lock is turned on. This method doesn’t work on Laptops without a separate numeric keypad.
Sigma symbol in Word for Mac
If you are using Mac, the easiest way to type the sigma symbol in Word is to use the keyboard shortcut.
The keyboard shortcut for sigma in the mac version of Word is Option+W.
Copy and paste the sigma symbol (Word and Excel)
One of the easiest ways to get the sigma symbol into your work is to simply copy and paste.
If you have to use it several times in your work, you can copy it once and paste it whenever the needs arise.
Below is the symbol for standard deviation (sigma) if you wish to copy and paste it into your Word or Excel document:
Σ
Using the insert symbol dialog
This method isn’t as simple as the previous methods. However, it isn’t also too hard to follow.
And once you are able to insert it into your document, you can copy and paste it again whenever the need arises.
To insert the symbol for standard deviation (sigma) using the symbol dialog, obey the following instructions:
- Place the insertion pointer at where you want to insert the sigma symbol.
- Go to the Insert tab.
- In the Symbols group, click Symbols>Symbol.
The Symbols dialog box will appear with a library of symbols.
- In the symbol’s dialog box, locate the sigma symbol and double click on it to insert it into your Word or Excel document.
- Close the Symbol’s dialog box.
These are the various ways you can insert the sigma or standard deviation symbol in Word or Excel.