The GBP sign (£) is the symbol used to represent the British pound, the official currency of the United Kingdom. If you are wondering how to make the GBP sign on your keyboard, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss various methods for both Windows and Mac operating systems to type the GBP sign easily.
How to Make GBP Sign on Windows
Option 1: Alt Code
To insert the GBP sign using the Alt code method, simply follow these steps:
1. Place your cursor where you want the GBP sign to appear.
2. Press and hold the Alt key on your keyboard.
3. While holding the Alt key, enter the Alt code for the GBP sign (0163) using the numeric keypad.
4. Release the Alt key, and the GBP sign (£) will be inserted.
Option 2: Character Map
Another way to make the GBP sign on a Windows computer is by using the Character Map tool. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open the Character Map utility by typing “Character Map” in the Windows search bar and selecting the corresponding result.
2. In the Character Map window, locate the GBP sign (£) and click on it.
3. Click the “Select” button, followed by “Copy” to place the GBP sign on your clipboard.
4. Go to the desired location and paste the copied GBP sign (Ctrl + V).
How to Make GBP Sign on Mac
Option 1: Keyboard Shortcut
Mac users can conveniently type the GBP sign using a keyboard shortcut. Here’s how:
1. Place your cursor where you want to insert the GBP sign.
2. Press and hold the Option (⌥) key on your Mac keyboard.
3. While holding the Option key, press the number 3 key.
4. Release both keys, and the GBP sign (£) will appear at the cursor location.
Option 2: Character Viewer
The Character Viewer on Mac provides an extensive collection of symbols, including the GBP sign. Follow these steps to access it:
1. Go to the location where you want to insert the GBP sign.
2. Click on the “Edit” menu in the top menu bar.
3. Select “Emoji & Symbols” or “Special Characters.” This will open the Character Viewer.
4. In the search bar of the Character Viewer, type “GBP” or “pound” to find the GBP sign.
5. Double-click the GBP sign (£), and it will be inserted at the cursor’s position.
Additional FAQ about Typing the GBP Sign
1. Can I use the GBP sign on any keyboard layout?
Yes, regardless of your keyboard layout, the Alt code or keyboard shortcut methods mentioned above should work.
2. How can I quickly access the GBP sign without memorizing Alt codes or shortcuts?
You can use the Character Map on Windows or the Character Viewer on Mac to visually locate and select the GBP sign.
3. Can I assign a custom shortcut for the GBP sign on Windows?
Yes, you can create a custom shortcut using third-party software or keyboard customization options in the Windows settings.
4. What if I need to type the GBP sign frequently?
If you need to type the GBP sign regularly, it might be more convenient to change your keyboard language settings to UK English.
5. Is the GBP sign available on mobile devices?
Yes, both Android and iOS devices have the GBP sign available in their respective keyboards.
6. How can I type the GBP sign in Microsoft Word?
The methods discussed above should work in Microsoft Word as well. Alternatively, you can also use the “Insert” tab and select “Symbol” to find the GBP sign.
7. Are there any other symbols associated with currency?
Yes, there are various symbols used to represent different currencies, such as the dollar sign ($), euro sign (€), and yen sign (¥).
8. Can I adjust the position or size of the GBP sign after inserting it into a document?
Yes, you can modify the position and size of the GBP sign just like any other text or symbol by using formatting options in your chosen word processing software.
9. Does the GBP sign have a standard Unicode value?
Yes, the GBP sign has a Unicode value of U+00A3.
10. How has the GBP sign evolved over time?
The GBP sign has gone through various transformations in history. The symbol £ comes from the Latin word “libra,” which means balance or weight.
11. Is the GBP sign widely recognized worldwide?
While the GBP sign is primarily associated with the British pound, it is also occasionally recognized and used in other contexts, though to a lesser extent.
12. Are there any countries other than the UK that use the GBP sign?
No, the GBP sign (£) is used exclusively to represent the British pound as the official currency of the United Kingdom.