Keyboard Shortcuts to Insert Bullet Points in Word

Bullet points are a great way to organize text and make it more readable in Microsoft Word. You can quickly insert bullet points using a combination of keyboard shortcuts and simple commands. Below are three or more methods to add bullet points efficiently:

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1. Keyboard Shortcut for Default Bullet Points

You can use the following shortcut to create a bullet point list:

• Windows:
  Press Ctrl + Shift + L
  This shortcut converts the selected text into a bulleted list using the default bullet style.
• Mac:
  Press Command (⌘) + Shift + L
  Similar to Windows, this creates a bulleted list instantly.

Steps:

1. Place your cursor where you want the bullet point or highlight the text you want to turn into a bulleted list.
2. Press the above shortcut.
3. Type your text, and press Enter to continue the list or Enter twice to exit.

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2. Create Custom Bullet Points Using a Symbol

If you want to use a specific symbol for your bullets, follow these steps:

• Shortcut to Access the Symbol Dialog Box:
  • Windows: Press Alt + N, then U
  • Mac: Press Control + Command + Space

Steps:

1. Open the Symbol dialog using the shortcut above.
2. Choose a symbol (e.g., a dot, arrow, or checkmark) from the list.
3. Insert it and continue typing. Repeat for additional bullet points.

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3. Use AutoFormat for Bullets

Microsoft Word automatically formats certain characters into bullets. Here’s how:

• Type * (asterisk), - (dash), or > (greater-than symbol) followed by a space. Word will automatically turn it into a bullet point.
• Press Enter to continue the list.

Example:

• Type * + Space + Text → Press Enter to add a new bullet point.

Pro Tip: If AutoFormat doesn’t work, enable it in File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options under the AutoFormat As You Type tab.

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4. Using the Bullet Library

If you need to customize bullet styles:

1. Shortcut to Open the Bullet Library:
   • Windows: Press Alt + H, then U
   • Mac: Press Option + Command + U
2. Select your desired bullet style from the library.
3. Continue typing to add more bullets.

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5. Use Alt Codes for Bullet Symbols

On Windows, you can use Alt codes to insert bullet symbols directly:

1. Hold down the Alt key and type:
   • Alt + 0149 for a standard bullet (•)
   • Alt + 0167 for a section symbol (§)
2. Release the Alt key, and the symbol will appear.

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Conclusion

By mastering these shortcuts and techniques, you can easily insert bullet points in Word, whether you prefer the default style, custom symbols, or automated options. Incorporating these methods into your workflow will make formatting your documents quicker and more efficient!