The hash sign (which looks like # and is also known as a pound sign in the US) used to be a bit niche until Twitter came along. Now you can barely avoid the symbol that is widely known as the hashtag after its use on various social networks.
But how do you type a hash or hashtag symbol on a Mac? The PC keyboard has a dedicated hash key, but it’s harder to find on a UK Mac keyboard. On older UK-layout Mac keyboards hash sign didn’t appear anywhere (although it does appear on newer keyboards).
Even if you do want to type a # on a UK keyboard you have to use the Option key (on some older keyboards the Option key is labeled Alt, as below).
To do a hashtag on a UK Mac, press Alt + 3. It’s as simple as that.
Want to update your UK keyboard to a new one? Have a look at out best Mac keyboards round up.
If you’re using a US Mac keyboard, meanwhile, things are easier: it’s the secondary option for the 3 key (you’ll see a # above the 3) so Shift + 3 will do the trick. (On UK keyboards this would type the £ also known as the Pound sign).
For more Mac keyboard tips, see How to type Æ, €, #, @, © and more special characters on a Mac.
Author: David Price, Editor
David has loved the iPhone since covering the original 2007 launch; later his obsession expanded to include iPad and Apple Watch. He offers advice to owners (and prospective owners) of these devices.