How to Quickly Insert the Trademark Symbol on a Mac Keyboard
In the contemporary world, it is important to develop professional material only, and when offering it, one must be equipped accurately. Almost all of us have needed the trademark (™) symbol one day – it can be when creating a business proposal or logo, writing an article or even just blogging.
Nevertheless, if you are operating with Apple’s operating system, Mac, you may be wondering how to type this symbol without effort.
Fear not, however, as this guide will walk you through every process of not only identifying where the trademark symbol is on your Mac keyboard but also how to type it in the blink of an eye.
Why Use the Trademark Symbol?
TM is used to show that the word, phrase, or logo mentioned in a piece of text is a trademark. Companies employ this symbol for purposes of asserting ownership and giving notice that the name or logo is proprietary. Putting the trademark symbol in your content not only looks more professional but also obeys all the rules of intellectual property rights. Now let me explain to you how you can insert this on a Mac.
Shortcut to Type the Trademark Symbol on macOS
Another easy way to insert a trademark (™) symbol on a Mac is by using a shortcut or hotkey to enable the symbol on your keyboard. Here’s how it’s done:
- Locate the Option Key: This key is usually underlined as “Alt” or “Option” on the keyboard of the Mac device.
- Press the Combination: To access the Mac Keyboard Viewer you need to press and hold the option button at the same time as pressing the 2 on the keyboard.
- Voila! The ™ symbol should appear instantly wherever your cursor is placed.
This shortcut is easy and can be used in Word, Pages, or even your web browser. They said after attempting it a few times, it won’t be anything new to you; you’ll have it at the back of your mind.
Using the Character Viewer for More Control
If you’re someone who prefers exploring options visually, the Character Viewer is a great alternative. Follow these steps:
Open the Character Viewer:
- Go to the back of Finder and look at the left upper corner in your screen there is an Apple logo.
- Open the Systems Preferences, then go to Keyboard, and then to Input Sources.
- Tick the checkbox beside the Show keyboard and emoji viewers in the menu bar.
Access the Viewer:
- Click on the new icon that appears in your menu bar.
- Select “Show Emoji & Symbols.”
Find the Trademark Symbol:
- Use the search bar in the Character Viewer and type “Trademark.”
- Click on the ™ symbol, and it will be inserted into your text.
The Character Viewer offers a visual way to access not just the trademark symbol but a variety of special characters and emojis.
Inserting the Trademark Symbol in Specific Applications
Some applications have their unique ways of inserting the trademark symbol. Let’s look at how to do it in a few commonly used programs:
Microsoft Word
- Place your cursor where you want the trademark symbol.
- Use the Mac shortcut: Option + 2.
- Alternatively, go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols, search for ™, and insert it.
Google Docs
● In Google Docs, click where you want the symbol.
● Go to Insert > Special Characters.
● Search for “Trademark” and click on the ™ symbol to add it.
Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator
● Activate the text tool and click where you want the trademark symbol.
● Use the Mac shortcut Option + 2 to insert it directly into your design.
Customizing Keyboard Shortcuts for Quick Access
Some users believe that typing the trademark symbol requires too much time; therefore, they set up a shortcut for a quicker type. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to System Preferences: To adjust the delay settings go to the Apple menu and click on System Preferences > Keyboard.
- Create a Shortcut: Navigate to Text and add a new shortcut by clicking the “+” button.
- Assign a Trigger: Set a trigger like “(TM)” that will automatically replace the ™ symbol when typed.
This is especially useful for writers, designers, and marketers especially those who frequently apply for the ™ trademark.
Tips to Remember the Shortcut
Struggling to remember shortcuts? Try these tips:
● Sticky Notes: Keep a small sticky note near your workspace with the shortcut written down until it becomes a habit.
● Practice Makes Perfect: Spend a few minutes typing the ™ symbol in different apps to make the shortcut stick.
● Create a Cheat Sheet: Compile a list of frequently used Mac shortcuts for easy reference.
Common Issues and Solutions
Despite these tips, you can still have some hitches now and then. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
- The Shortcut Doesn’t Work: Make sure you’re using the correct keys. Double-check your keyboard layout—some international layouts may have different shortcuts.
- Symbol Doesn’t Appear: Ensure the app you’re using supports special characters. Most modern apps like Word, Pages, and Google Docs do.
- Mac Keyboard Settings: If your keyboard shortcuts are no longer working, open System Preferences > Keyboard and make sure the shortcuts are on.
Why Learning Shortcuts Can Save You Time
First of all, let me state that the main goal of the use of keyboard shortcuts is to increase productivity. With this trademark shortcut, it takes you a shorter time and does not interrupt your workflow to search for symbols. They could be seen as small-time savers who, after hours, days, weeks, months, and years, build up to make a person more proficient, thus improving their concentration on what is important.
Final Thoughts
Typing the trademark symbol on a Mac keyboard is easier than it looks. Now, apart from the simple shortcut, Option + 2, the Character Viewer, or a defined shortcut created by yourself, you have at least three ways to access the Subset drop-down list.
In no time at all, you are going to insert the ™ symbol as though you have been doing it forever, making your clients, readers, and colleagues proud of your professional work. Try it today and feel yourself a master Mac in no time!
