Pi Symbol (π)
To type the pi symbol (π): press ⌥P (Option+P) on a Mac, or hold Alt and type 227 on the numeric keypad on Windows. Use it in maths like C = 2πr.
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pi π | ⌥P | Alt+227 | |
| π (copy) | π | π |
The pi symbol on Mac vs Windows
The pi symbol (π). On a Mac press ⌥P. On Windows, hold Alt and type 227 on the numeric keypad (NumLock on), then release. No number pad? Copy the π above, or use the Windows emoji panel Win+..
Where you use π
Pi (π ≈ 3.14159) is the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. You'll write it in formulas like area = πr² and circumference = 2πr. It reads as "pi".
Related special characters
Typing other symbols and accented letters? See how to type infinity symbol · squared symbol · arrow symbols on both Mac and Windows.
FAQ
What is the pi symbol shortcut?
On a Mac press ⌥P. On Windows hold Alt and type 227 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt.
How do I type π without a number pad?
Copy the π above, or on Windows press Win+. for the emoji panel and search "pi". On Mac ⌥P works on any keyboard.