The fastest way to type a check mark depends on what device and program you're using

A check mark (✓) is a small symbol that shows something is correct, complete, or approved. The method to type one changes based on whether you're on Windows, Mac, or a phone, and whether you're in a word processor, email, or a web form. Most devices let you insert one in under ten seconds once you know where to look.

The simplest route on any computer is usually copy-paste: find a check mark online, copy it, and paste it where you need it. But if you type check marks often, learning the keyboard shortcut or menu option for your specific device saves time.

Key Takeaways

  • On Windows, hold Alt and type 0252 on the numeric keypad to produce a check mark, or use the Insert menu in Word to find the symbol.
  • On Mac, press Option + V to type a check mark in most programs, or use the Character Viewer to search for and insert it.
  • On iPhone or iPad, open the emoji keyboard and search for "check" to find the check mark symbol among the results.
  • On Android, long-press the spacebar to open the symbol menu, or use the Google Keyboard's search feature to find the check mark.
  • In web forms and Google Docs, copy a check mark from any source and paste it directly into the text field.

Windows: Alt code and Word menu

On Windows, the fastest method is the Alt code. Hold down the Alt key, type 0252 on the numeric keypad (the numbers on the right side of your keyboard), then release Alt. A check mark appears instantly. This works in most programs: email, text editors, web browsers, and documents.

If your keyboard does not have a numeric keypad, or if the Alt code does not work, open Microsoft Word and go to the Insert menu at the top. Click Symbol, then search for "check mark" in the search box. Select the one you want and click Insert. You can then copy it and paste it into other programs.

A third option is to simply search online for "check mark symbol," copy it from the search results, and paste it where you need it. This works everywhere and requires no memorization.

Mac: Option key and Character Viewer

On Mac, press Option + V to type a check mark in most programs. This is the quickest method if you use check marks regularly. The symbol appears as soon as you release the keys.

If Option + V does not work in the program you are using, open the Character Viewer. Press Control + Command + Space, then type "check" in the search box. The check mark symbol appears in the results. Click it to insert it into your document. You can also drag it to your favorites for faster access later.

iPhone and iPad: Emoji keyboard

On iPhone or iPad, open any text field and tap the emoji keyboard button (usually a smiley face icon at the bottom of the keyboard). Tap the search icon at the bottom and type "check." The check mark symbol appears in the results. Tap it to insert it.

If you do not see a search icon, swipe left through the emoji categories until you find the symbols section, where check marks are usually grouped with other marks and signs.

Android: Symbol menu and keyboard search

On Android, the method depends on which keyboard you use. With Google Keyboard (Gboard), tap the numbers and symbols button (usually labeled "?123"), then tap the symbols tab. Look for the check mark, or tap the search icon and type "check" to find it faster.

On Samsung keyboards and others, long-press the spacebar to open a symbol menu, or tap the symbols button and swipe through the available symbols. If you cannot find it quickly, copy a check mark from a web search and paste it instead.

Google Docs and web forms

In Google Docs, go to Insert at the top menu, then Special Characters. Type "check" in the search box and select the check mark from the results. It inserts immediately into your document.

In web forms and email, the simplest method is to search for "check mark" online, copy the symbol from the search results, and paste it into the form field. This works in Gmail, Google Forms, web surveys, and most other online text boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a check mark and a checkmark?

There is no difference — they are the same symbol. "Check mark" and "checkmark" are both correct spellings. The symbol itself looks like a small tick or slash mark, usually angled to the right.

Can I type a check mark in a text message?

Yes. On iPhone, use the emoji keyboard and search for "check." On Android, use Gboard's symbol menu or search feature. You can also copy a check mark from online and paste it into your message.

Why does Alt + 0252 not work on my Windows computer?

The Alt code only works on the numeric keypad on the right side of your keyboard, not the number row at the top. If your keyboard has no numeric keypad, use the Insert menu in Word or copy-paste a check mark from online instead.

Is there a check mark emoji that is different from the check mark symbol?

Yes. The emoji keyboard has a check mark emoji (✅) that is larger and often colored. The symbol method produces a smaller, plain check mark (✓). Use whichever looks right for what you are writing.

Can I type a check mark in Excel?

Yes, using any of the methods above. In Excel, you can also go to Insert at the top, click Symbol, search for "check," and select it. The check mark then appears in the cell you selected.