Typing symbols on a keyboard can sometimes be confusing, especially when it comes to characters like the percentage symbol. Whether you are writing a financial report, working on spreadsheets, or developing code, knowing how to use the percentage symbol in keyboard layout is essential. This guide walks you through using the percentage sign on different devices and operating systems including Windows, Mac, mobile phones, and international keyboards.
Why the Percentage Symbol is Useful
The percentage symbol is used to represent a part of a whole. It is widely seen in calculations, marketing, finance, and computer programming. Common uses include indicating discounts, interest rates, statistical data, and grading systems.
How to Type the Percentage Symbol on Standard Keyboards
On Windows and Mac Keyboards
The percentage symbol is located on the number 5 key on most QWERTY keyboards.
To type it, hold the Shift key and press the number 5 key. This shortcut works across both Windows and macOS devices regardless of whether you are using a full-sized or compact keyboard.
On Laptop Keyboards
Laptop keyboards generally follow the same key placement as desktops. Use the Shift and 5 key combination to type the percentage symbol. If you are using a compact or customized keyboard, the symbol might appear in a different position, so it’s helpful to refer to the digital layout in system preferences.
Using the Percentage Symbol on Mobile Devices
Android Devices
To access the percentage symbol on Android:
- Tap a text input field
- Press the numbers or symbols key, usually labeled 123 or ?123
- Find and tap the percentage sign
Most Android keyboards, such as Gboard or SwiftKey, include the percentage symbol on their main or secondary symbol layouts.
iPhones and iPads
To type the percentage symbol on iOS devices:
- Open any text field
- Tap the 123 button to access numbers and symbols
- Tap the percentage symbol directly
There is no need to install any additional apps or keyboards as the built-in Apple keyboard already supports it.
Typing the Percentage Symbol on International Keyboards
Different countries have different keyboard layouts, which may affect the placement of the percentage key. Some common variations include:
- German layout: Shift + 5
- French layout: Shift plus a symbol key or AltGr combination
- Spanish layout: Usually Shift + 5, though variations exist
If you cannot locate the symbol easily, you can switch to the English US keyboard layout temporarily through the system settings.
Using the Percentage Symbol in Office and Web Applications
In Microsoft Word and Excel
Typing Shift + 5 will insert the symbol as expected. In Excel, you can also type a number, then apply the percentage format using the toolbar. Excel will automatically convert numbers like 0.25 to 25 percent.
In Google Docs and Google Sheets
In Google Docs, typing Shift + 5 adds the symbol normally. In Sheets, you can type a number and use the Format menu or toolbar to change it to a percentage format.
Using the Percentage Symbol in Programming
In many programming languages, the percentage symbol is used for specific operations:
- In Python, it is used for modulo operations and formatting
- In C and Java, it is also used as the modulo operator
- In JavaScript, it calculates the remainder after division
To type the symbol in your code editor, simply use the Shift and 5 combination as with regular typing.
Inserting the Percentage Symbol Using ASCII Code
On Windows, if you have a numeric keypad, you can insert the symbol using its ASCII value.
Hold the Alt key and type 37 on the numeric keypad. Once you release the Alt key, the percentage symbol will appear. This method is particularly useful in legacy software or if your keyboard key is not functioning properly.
Troubleshooting: When the Percentage Key Doesn’t Work
Sometimes the percentage symbol does not appear when using the usual shortcut. Here are possible reasons and fixes:
Incorrect Keyboard Layout
If your keyboard layout was accidentally changed, you might not get the expected symbol.
- On Windows: Go to Settings > Time & Language > Language > Preferred Language > Keyboard
- On Mac: Navigate to System Preferences > Keyboard > Input Sources
Switch back to your default or US layout if necessary.
Physical Keyboard Issues
If the key or Shift function is not responding, try using:
- On-screen keyboard on Windows by searching for “osk”
- Keyboard Viewer on Mac under Accessibility settings
- An external USB or Bluetooth keyboard
Use of Virtual Tools
You can also use virtual tools like the Character Map on Windows or Emoji and Symbols on macOS. These allow you to search for and insert characters such as the percentage symbol.
Summary of Methods for Typing the Percentage Symbol
| Platform or Device | Shortcut or Method |
| Windows or Mac Keyboard | Shift + 5 |
| Android Phone | Tap 123 > % |
| iPhone or iPad | Tap 123 > % |
| ASCII Code (Windows) | Alt + 37 |
| Microsoft Excel | Format cell as percentage |
| Google Sheets | Use percentage format from menu |
These methods cover most environments where typing the symbol might be necessary.
Tips for Using the Percentage Symbol
- Do not insert spaces between the number and the symbol
- Use it consistently throughout the document
- In formal documents, consider whether the word percent should be written out depending on style requirements
- Avoid repeated or misplaced symbols such as 100%%
FAQs About Percentage Symbol in Keyboard
How do I type the percentage symbol on a Windows laptop?
Use Shift and 5 to insert the percentage symbol.
Where is the percentage symbol located on Mac keyboards?
It is located above the number 5 key and accessed using Shift + 5.
How do I find the percentage symbol on mobile devices?
Tap the numbers or symbols key (123) to reveal it.
What is the ASCII code for the percentage symbol?
The code is Alt + 37 on Windows using a numeric keypad.
Why does Shift + 5 not work on my keyboard?
Your keyboard layout may have changed. Switch to US QWERTY or check your input language settings.
The percentage symbol is simple to use once you know where to find it. Whether you are on a desktop, laptop, mobile phone, or using international keyboards, the process remains straightforward. With the right shortcuts and tools, you can insert the percentage sign quickly and effectively across all platforms.