How to Type the Alpha Symbol (α)

You don’t have to be the fastest, strongest, or most assertive to insert the alpha symbol (α) into a document on a Windows PC, on a Mac, or on an iOS or Android device. With quick and easy keyboard shortcuts, anyone can type this ancient Greek letter and math symbol.

We explain each method below. 

How to Insert the Alpha Symbol on a Windows PC

On a Windows PC, click to the place in your document where you would like to insert the alpha symbol. Next, hold the Alt key and type the numbers 224.

If you’re using Microsoft Word, you can also access the alpha symbol in the Advanced Symbols library under the Insert tab. Once you access the library, type “alpha” in the search bar. Now double click on the α to include the symbol in your document.

Alpha Symbol

If you plan to use the alpha symbol multiple times in a Microsoft Word document, you can adjust your AutoCorrect options to automatically replace a word or phrase (such as “alpha”) with the symbol. First, copy the symbol from this article: α. Then, search under the Tools tab for AutoCorrect options. In the replace field, choose a word or phrase (such as “alpha”) and then in the with field, paste the symbol. Now press add. 

How to Insert the Alpha Symbol on a Mac

Find the alpha symbol by going to your Mac’s Emoji and Symbols library. Simultaneously press Control, Command, and Spacebar to open the Character Viewer. Search for “alpha.” Then double-click the alpha symbol or highlight and drag the symbol into your document. 

How to Insert the Alpha Symbol on an iPhone or iPad

There are mathematically constant ways to type the alpha symbol from the keyboard of an IOS or Android device.

On an iPhone, change your keyboard settings to include Greek. Under Settings, tap General, then Keyboards. From here, you can “Add New Keyboard.” Now you can open the application where you would like to type the alpha sign, which is the Greek lowercase a. 

How to Insert the Alpha Symbol on an Android Phone

If you’ve installed Gboard on your Android Phone, you can find the alpha symbol by adding Greek to your keyboard. First tap on Settings, then Languages, followed by Add keyboard. Then find the Greek lowercase a to insert the alpha symbol into your document or message. 

Additional Resources