How Do I Get The Hashtag Symbol On My Keyboard?

What's Happening

That little # symbol you're hunting for? It's hiding in plain sight. On most keyboards, it shares a key with the number 3. You'll only see it when you press Shift (or Option on UK Mac keyboards). This setup dates back to the days when symbols like #, $, and % were secondary characters on number keys. Funny how something so simple became essential once Twitter and Instagram turned it into the internet's favorite organizer National Geographic.

Step-by-Step Solution

Let's get you typing that symbol right now. Pick the setup that matches your gear:

1. US QWERTY Keyboard (Windows or Mac)
   • Find that key with both 3 and # on it—usually the third key from the left on the top row.
   • Hold down Shift.
   • Press the 3/# key once.
   • Let go of both keys. There's your #.
2. UK QWERTY Keyboard (Windows)
   • Hold Shift.
   • Press the key with both 3 and # (same physical key as the US layout).
   • Release both keys. The # should appear.
3. UK QWERTY Keyboard (Mac)
   • Hold the Option (⌥) key.
   • Press the 3 key.
   • Release both keys. You'll get your #.
4. Alternative in Word Processors
   • Microsoft Word 365 (version 2406 or later, as of 2026): Go to Insert → Symbol → More Symbols → Special Characters → Hash Sign (#) → Insert.
   • Google Docs: Go to Insert → Special Characters, type “number sign” in the search box, then click the # symbol from the results.
   • LibreOffice Writer: Go to Insert → Special Character, search for “hash”, and select it.

If This Didn't Work

Still not seeing the #? Don't panic. Try these troubleshooting steps:

• Check your keyboard layout:
  • Windows 12: Head to Settings → Time & Language → Language & Region. Make sure your input method is set to “English (US)” or “English (UK)”.
  • macOS Sequoia (15.x): Open System Settings → Keyboard → Input Sources and double-check that you've got the right layout selected.
• Enable Num Lock on full-size keyboards:

  If you're using the numeric keypad (usually on the right side), press the Num Lock key. When Num Lock is off, the keypad might not register Shift + 3 correctly.

• Use the system symbol picker:

  Operating System	Shortcut
  Windows	Press Windows + . (period) to open the emoji & symbols panel. Switch to the Symbols tab and scroll until you find #.
  macOS	Press Control + Command + Space to open the Character Viewer. Type “number sign” in the search box and double-click #.

Prevention Tips

Want to avoid this hassle next time? A few simple habits make all the difference:

• Update your operating system regularly. Both Windows 12 and macOS Sequoia (as of 2026) include better keyboard layout detection and accessibility features that help prevent symbol mix-ups Microsoft Support.
• Match your keyboard to your system layout. Plugging a US layout keyboard into a UK system? You'll get £ when you press Shift + 3. Keep your keyboard layout consistent with your operating system.
• Give your keyboard some TLC. Dust and crumbs can make keys sluggish. A quick blast of compressed air or a soft brush every few months keeps the 3/# key clicking smoothly. Skip the harsh cleaners—they can eat away at the keyboard coating over time.