Paragraph Symbol ¶ — How to Type the Pilcrow on Any Device

The paragraph symbol (¶), also known as the pilcrow or paragraph mark, is a typographical character used to denote the start of a new paragraph. While rarely seen in final published documents today, it remains an essential tool for editors, legal professionals, and anyone working with formatted text. This guide shows you how to type ¶ on any device.

What Is the Paragraph Symbol?

The paragraph symbol originated from the Greek word "paragraphos" meaning "to write beside." Historically, it marked where a new thought or topic began. In modern usage, it appears:

• In Microsoft Word's formatting marks view (showing paragraph breaks)
• In legal citations (e.g., ¶ 45 refers to paragraph 45)
• In proofreading and editing markup
• In programming and text processing contexts

Copy and Paste

How to Type ¶ on Windows

Method 1: Alt Code

1. Press and hold Alt key
2. Type 0182 on numeric keypad
3. Release Alt — ¶ appears

Method 2: Character Map

1. Open Character Map from Start menu
2. Search for "pilcrow" or browse for ¶
3. Select and copy to use

Method 3: Emoji Panel

1. Press Windows key + .
2. Search "paragraph"
3. Click to insert

How to Type ¶ on Mac

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut

Press Option + 7 to produce ¶

Method 2: Character Viewer

1. Press Control + Command + Space
2. Search for "pilcrow"
3. Double-click to insert

How to Type ¶ on Linux

Method 1: Compose Key

1. Press Compose key
2. Type PO or P!
3. ¶ appears

Method 2: Unicode Input

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + U
2. Type 00B6
3. Press Enter

How to Type ¶ on Mobile

iPhone/iPad

1. Tap 123 for numbers
2. Tap #+=
3. Tap and hold & key
4. Select ¶ from popup

Android

1. Tap ?123
2. Tap =\<
3. Long-press P key
4. Select ¶ from options

HTML Code

Microsoft Word

• Insert symbol: Insert > Symbol > More Symbols > ¶
• Alt code: Alt + 0182
• Show formatting: Home > ¶ button (toggles formatting marks)

Quick Reference

Related Symbols

• § — Section symbol (used in legal documents)
• † — Dagger (reference mark)
• ‡ — Double dagger (second reference mark)

Conclusion

The paragraph symbol (¶) has evolved from a functional mark in ancient manuscripts to a specialized character used in editing, legal writing, and formatting. With the shortcuts in this guide, you can quickly insert the pilcrow whenever needed.