How to use it
- Click a symbol to copy it.
- Paste it into your document or website footer.
- Use the shortcuts below to type it next time.
How to type ©, ® and ™
| Symbol | Windows | Mac | Word AutoCorrect | HTML |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| © | Alt + 0169 | Option + G | (c) | © |
| ® | Alt + 0174 | Option + R | (r) | ® |
| ™ | Alt + 0153 | Option + 2 | (tm) | ™ |
| ℠ | – | – | – | ℠ |
In Word and many other apps, typing (c), (r) or (tm) is converted automatically.
What each symbol means
- © copyright: marks a creative work such as text, photos, music, code or designs. In the U.S., copyright protection exists automatically when a work is created; the notice isn't required, but it reminds others that the work is protected. A typical notice: © 2026 Jane Smith. All rights reserved.
- ™ trademark: used with a brand name, logo or slogan you claim as a trademark, registered or not.
- ® registered trademark: only for trademarks registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (or another national office). Using ® for an unregistered mark can be unlawful.
- ℠ service mark: like ™, but for services.
- ℗ sound recording copyright: used on albums and recordings.
This is general information, not legal advice.
Other legal and editorial signs
| Symbol | Name | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| § | section sign | "17 U.S.C. § 107" |
| ¶ | pilcrow (paragraph) | citing paragraphs, editing marks |
| † ‡ | dagger, double dagger | footnotes; † also "deceased" |
| ※ | reference mark | notes in East Asian texts |
| ℅ | care of | addresses |
| 🄯 | copyleft | open licenses |
Formatting tips
On websites, the copyright line usually goes in the footer. ® and ™ are often formatted as superscript (Brand®) so they don't stand out; HTML's <sup> tag does this. For more characters, see copy and paste symbols.
How to copy and paste
Click a symbol on this page and it's copied to your clipboard right away. Then:
- Windows: click where you want it and press Ctrl + V.
- Mac: press Cmd + V.
- iPhone and Android: tap and hold in the text field, then tap Paste.
The panel that opens after a click also lets you copy the HTML code instead, or add the symbol to the Your text box at the bottom so you can combine several symbols and words and copy them all at once. Symbols you've used recently appear at the top of the page, stored only in your browser.
Frequently asked questions
How do I type the copyright symbol?
On Windows, Alt + 0169; on a Mac, Option + G; in Word, type (c). In HTML, use ©.
What is the difference between ™ and ®?
™ can be used for any claimed trademark; ® only for trademarks officially registered.
Do I need the © symbol to have copyright?
In the U.S., copyright exists automatically when you create a work. A notice isn't required but is useful.
How do I type the section symbol §?
On Windows, Alt + 0167; on a Mac, Option + 6. In HTML, §.
Sources
Last updated: November 12, 2026