Bullet Point Alt Code Finder

What is an Alt Code?

Alt codes are keyboard shortcuts that allow you to insert special characters and symbols by holding the Alt key and typing a specific number sequence on the numeric keypad. This method has been available since the early days of personal computers and remains one of the fastest ways to insert special characters in Windows applications.

Most Common Bullet Point Alt Codes

Here are the most frequently used bullet point Alt codes for Windows:

• • (Bullet): Alt + 0149 - The standard bullet point used in most documents
• ◦ (White Bullet): Alt + 9702 - A hollow bullet point for sub-items
• ▪ (Black Square): Alt + 9642 - A square bullet for modern designs
• → (Right Arrow): Alt + 26 - Perfect for showing progression or steps
• ✓ (Check Mark): Alt + 10003 - Great for checklists and completed items

How to Use Alt Codes on Windows

Follow these simple steps to insert bullet points using Alt codes:

1. Enable Num Lock: Make sure the Num Lock key is turned on (the indicator light should be lit)
2. Hold the Alt key: Press and hold down the Alt key on your keyboard
3. Type the code: While holding Alt, type the numbers using the numeric keypad (not the number row at the top)
4. Release Alt: When you release the Alt key, the symbol will appear

Troubleshooting Alt Codes

If your Alt code isn't working, check these common issues:

Num Lock is Off

The most common problem is that Num Lock is turned off. Press the Num Lock key and try again. The Num Lock indicator light should be on.

Using the Wrong Number Keys

Alt codes only work with the numeric keypad on the right side of your keyboard, not the number row at the top. Make sure you're using the correct keys.

Laptop Without Numeric Keypad

Many laptops don't have a dedicated numeric keypad. Look for an embedded numpad (usually marked on the J, K, L, U, I, O keys). You may need to press Fn + Num Lock to activate it.

Application Doesn't Support Alt Codes

Some modern applications (especially web-based ones) may not support Alt codes. In these cases, you can copy the symbol from this page and paste it where you need it.

Alt Codes vs. Other Methods

There are several ways to insert bullet points and special characters:

Alt Codes (Windows)

Pros: Fast, works in most applications, no mouse required
Cons: Requires numeric keypad, need to memorize codes

Character Map (Windows)

Pros: Visual selection, shows all available characters
Cons: Slower, requires mouse, need to open separate application

Keyboard Shortcuts (Mac)

Pros: Quick for common symbols (e.g., Option + 8 for •)
Cons: Different shortcuts than Windows, limited symbols

Copy and Paste

Pros: Works everywhere, no special knowledge required
Cons: Requires internet access or saved reference, slower for repeated use

Using Bullet Points Effectively

Now that you know how to insert bullet points, here are some tips for using them effectively:

• Keep it concise: Each bullet point should be brief and to the point
• Use parallel structure: Start each bullet with the same part of speech
• Limit the number: 3-7 bullets per list is ideal for readability
• Use sub-bullets sparingly: Too many levels can be confusing
• Choose appropriate symbols: Match the bullet style to your document's tone

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Alt code for a bullet point?

The most common bullet point (•) uses Alt code 0149. Hold Alt, type 0149 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt.

Why doesn't my Alt code work?

Make sure Num Lock is on and you're using the numeric keypad (not the top row numbers). Also ensure you're holding Alt while typing the entire code.

Can I use Alt codes on a laptop?

Yes, but you may need to activate the embedded numeric keypad using Fn + Num Lock. Some laptops require you to hold Fn while typing the code.

Do Alt codes work on Mac?

No, Alt codes are Windows-specific. Mac uses different keyboard shortcuts (e.g., Option + 8 for •) or the Character Viewer (Ctrl + Cmd + Space).

What if I don't have a numeric keypad?

You can use the Character Map application in Windows, copy symbols from this page, or use keyboard shortcuts in your specific application (e.g., Ctrl + Shift + L in Word).

Related Tools

Explore our other free bullet point tools:

• Quick Copy Tool - Copy bullet symbols with one click
• Symbol Library - Browse 200+ bullet symbols
• Keyboard Shortcuts Guide - Learn shortcuts for all platforms
• AI Resume Optimizer - Optimize your resume bullet points with AI