Arrow symbols using Alt codes

Arrow symbols can be particularly useful for various documents and presentations to direct attention or illustrate movements or directions. You can insert these arrow symbols using Alt codes, which are simple key combinations on a Windows keyboard that let you type symbols that aren't readily available on the keyboard.

How to Use Alt Codes for Arrows

1. Ensure Num Lock is On: First, make sure your Num Lock is turned on. This allows the numeric keypad to input numbers (and not function as arrow keys).

2. Hold the ALT Key: Press and hold the ALT key on your keyboard.

3. Type the Code on the Numeric Keypad: While holding down the ALT key, type the numeric code for the arrow you want using the numeric keypad.

4. Release the ALT Key: After typing the numeric code, release the ALT key, and the arrow symbol will appear.

Here are some common arrow symbols and their corresponding Alt codes:

Common Arrow Alt Codes

• Alt + 24 → ↑ (Upwards Arrow)
• Alt + 25 → ↓ (Downwards Arrow)
• Alt + 26 → → (Rightwards Arrow)
• Alt + 27 → ← (Leftwards Arrow)

Other Useful Arrow Symbols and Their Alt Codes

• Alt + 23 → ↨ (Up-Down Arrow)
• Alt + 18 → ↕ (Up-Down Arrow without stem)
• Alt + 29 → ↔ (Left Right Arrow)

Additional Arrow Symbols (Requires NumPad)

• Alt + 8592 → ← (Leftwards Arrow)
• Alt + 8593 → ↑ (Upwards Arrow)
• Alt + 8594 → → (Rightwards Arrow)
• Alt + 8595 → ↓ (Downwards Arrow)
• Alt + 8596 → ↔ (Left Right Arrow)
• Alt + 8656 → ⇐ (Leftwards Double Arrow)
• Alt + 8657 → ⇑ (Upwards Double Arrow)
• Alt + 8658 → ⇒ (Rightwards Double Arrow)
• Alt + 8659 → ⇓ (Downwards Double Arrow)
• Alt + 8660 → ⇔ (Left Right Double Arrow)

Tips for Using Alt Codes

• Use the Numeric Keypad: You must use the numeric keypad to enter the numbers, not the number row above the letter keys.
• Font Dependency: Some symbols might not appear correctly in all fonts. If you encounter issues, try switching to a more commonly used font like Arial or Times New Roman.
• Operating System: Alt codes work primarily on Windows. For macOS, you typically use the Option key with different characters or utilize the Character Viewer.

Application in Documents

These symbols can be used in various applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other software that supports text input. They are handy for creating flowcharts, diagrams, or simply when you need to point something out in a text document or presentation.

Using Alt codes is a quick method to include various symbols in your documents, enhancing readability and providing visual guides for readers or viewers, especially when directional cues are needed.