How To Get A Hashtag On An American Keyboard

Whether you’re posting on social media, coding a website, or simply adding a tag to a document, the # (hash) symbol—commonly called a hashtag—is essential. On an American‑style keyboard the key is present, but many users still wonder where it lives and how to type it quickly. This guide walks you through every method, from the standard shortcut to alternative tricks for laptops, tablets, and external keyboards.

Understanding the Layout of the American Keyboard

On a typical U.S. QWERTY keyboard the hashtag shares a key with the number 3. The symbol is accessed by holding the Shift key and pressing the 3 key. In other words:

  1. Press and hold Shift.
  2. While holding Shift, tap the 3 key.
  3. Release both keys. The # appears.

This is the most common method and works on desktop computers, laptops, and external keyboards that follow the U.S. layout.

Alternative Ways to Type the Hashtag

If you find yourself without a Shift key, or you’re using a device that doesn’t display the traditional layout, the following options let you type the # sign easily.

Using the Alt Code (Windows)

Hold the Alt key and type 35 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt. This inserts a # regardless of the keyboard’s visual layout.

Using the Character Map (Windows)

Open the Character Map utility, locate the # symbol, select it, and click “Copy.” Paste the character wherever you need it.

Using the Option/Alt Key (Mac)

On macOS the hash is typed by pressing Option (⌥) + 3. This works on both built‑in and external keyboards that follow the U.S. arrangement.

Using On‑Screen Keyboard (All Platforms)

All major operating systems provide an on‑screen keyboard. Open it, locate the # key (usually under the numbers row), and click it. This method is handy for tablets or when a physical keyboard is unavailable.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts in Mobile Apps

Most smartphone keyboards hide the # behind the “123” or “sym” toggle. Tap that