How to type accent marks
The right typing method depends on your keyboard layout, operating system, and application. Copying from the character reference works when a shortcut is unavailable.
Windows: Western-code-page shortcuts
For characters with a verified CP1252 mapping, hold Alt and type the displayed four-digit number, including its leading zero, on the numeric keypad. Release Alt. For example, é maps to CP1252 byte 233 and the shortcut Alt+0233.
These shortcuts depend on a Windows Western code page and application support. Number-row keys are not a substitute for the numeric keypad. The values shown are verified against the mapping file; they are not universal Unicode Alt codes. If the result differs, use copy and paste or Character Map.
Microsoft Word and Outlook: hexadecimal Alt+X
In Word for Windows, type a Unicode hexadecimal value such as 00E9, select the code, and press Alt+X to convert it to é. Selecting the code prevents a preceding hexadecimal letter from being included.
Classic Outlook for Windows supports this method in its message editor. Do not assume it works in new Outlook, Outlook on the web, or every Office application. Use copy and paste if your editor does not support it.
Microsoft: character codes in Word · Microsoft: accent shortcuts in Word and Outlook
Mac
In supported apps, hold a letter key to open the accent menu, then choose a character. Available choices depend on the letter and app. The Character Viewer offers additional symbols.
Phones and tablets
Touch and hold a letter on a keyboard that supports alternate characters, then choose an accented form. Choices vary with the keyboard and language settings. If the character you need is absent, copy it from its letter page.
Check the exact character
Similar-looking letters can have different encodings. Inspect the Unicode name and code point in our accent letter grid, especially when entering identifiers or reference text.