Ever come across a word like schön, a band name like Mötley Crüe, or a cool website like the puzzle portal Öoo.org and wondered, "How on earth do I type that O with the two dots?"
That symbol, known as an "O with an umlaut" (in German) or "diaeresis," is common in many languages and is popping up more and more online. Don't worry, it's much easier to type than you think! This guide will show you how to type Ö (uppercase) and ö (lowercase) on Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.
On a Windows PC
You have a few options on Windows, from a quick shortcut to a more permanent setup.
Method 1: The ALT Code (The Classic Trick)
This is the fastest method if you have a keyboard with a numeric keypad (the number keys on the right side).
Make sure Num Lock is on.
For uppercase Ö: Hold down the ALT key and type 0214 on the numeric keypad. Release the ALT key.
For lowercase ö: Hold down the ALT key and type 0246 on the numeric keypad. Release the ALT key.
Note: You must use the numeric keypad, not the number keys along the top of your keyboard.
Method 2: The Character Map
If you don't have a numeric keypad or can't remember the codes, the Character Map is your best friend.
Click the Start menu and type Character Map into the search bar.
Open the application.
Find the Ö or ö symbol in the grid.
Click Select and then Copy.
You can now paste it anywhere you need!
On a Mac
Mac users have it a bit easier with a very intuitive built-in shortcut.
Method 1: The Option Key Shortcut
This method is quick and works for all vowels with an umlaut.
For the umlaut (the two dots): Hold down the Option key and press U. Nothing will appear yet.
Release the keys. You've now told the computer you want to add an umlaut to the next letter.
Now, simply type the letter you want it on.
For lowercase ö: Press o.
For uppercase Ö: Press Shift + O.
Method 2: The Long-Press Menu
This is the simplest way to find special characters on a Mac.
Simply press and hold the O key on your keyboard.
A small menu will pop up with different variations of the letter.
You'll see Ö listed with a number below it. Either click it with your mouse or press the corresponding number key.
On a Smartphone (iOS and Android)
Typing special characters on your phone is incredibly simple. The method is the same for both iPhone and Android keyboards.
Open your keyboard.
Press and hold the "O" key.
A menu of options will slide out.
Without lifting your finger, slide over to the Ö and then release. Voilà!
Putting It to Use: A Fun Example
Now that you're an expert at typing "Ö," you can easily visit some cool places on the web that use it. A great example is Öoo.org.
This site is home to the Öoo game , which translates to the "Öoo brain-burning puzzle game." It's a fantastic collection of clever logic puzzles that are perfect for anyone who loves a good mental challenge. So go ahead, practice your new skill by typing Öoo.org into your browser and give your brain a workout!
Happy typing
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