Bullet points are simple but powerful tools for making information easier to read. Whether you’re writing a document in Google Docs, formatting slides in PowerPoint, or drafting an email, bullet points help organize ideas clearly.
This article shows you how to type a bullet point (•) using your keyboard on different devices. You’ll learn the shortcuts for Windows, Mac, mobile, and even HTML or blog formatting. If you need quick steps, copy-paste options, or want to understand how bullets work, this guide is for you.
What Is a Bullet Point Symbol?
A bullet point is a small dot used to start items in a list. It looks like this: •
This symbol is common in documents, websites, and user interfaces to break up text and highlight key points.
Technically, the bullet point is a Unicode character. Its code is U+2022. That means it’s supported across platforms like Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and web browsers.
You’ll see bullet points in apps like Word, Google Docs, email clients, and even on social media posts. They improve readability and structure in everything from meeting notes to grocery lists.
How to Type a Bullet on a Windows Keyboard
Windows offers a few easy ways to insert a bullet point:
- Press Alt + 7 on the numeric keypad to insert a bullet (•)
- Or press Alt + 0149 on the numeric keypad for the same result
Or Open the Character Map:
-
- Click Start
- Search for “Character Map”
- Find and copy the • symbol
Another way is simply copy this bullet and paste it: •
Tip: In Microsoft Word or Outlook, click the bullet list icon in the formatting toolbar — no keyboard needed.
Making Bullet Points on a Mac
Mac users can insert bullets using built-in shortcuts or special symbol panels.
Here’s how:
- Option + 8 = •
- Control + Command + Spacebar → Opens the Emoji & Symbols panel. Search for “bullet” and click to insert.
These methods work in apps like Pages, Notes, Mail, and any browser or writing tool on macOS.
How to Add Bullet Points in Google Docs
Google Docs has a built-in toolbar with list tools that include bullets.
Here is how:
- Open your Google Doc
- Click the bulleted list icon in the top toolbar
- To change styles:
- Click the dropdown next to the icon
- Pick a new bullet style
- Or right-click inside the document → choose Bullets
To switch between numbered and bulleted lists, click the dropdown next to the bullet icon.
Typing Bullet Points on Mobile (iOS & Android)
On phones, bullet symbols are not always obvious. But they’re there.
If you’re using the standard mobile keyboard:
- Long-press the dash/hyphen key. This may reveal special characters like •
- Or switch to the emoji or symbol keyboard and scroll to find bullets, dots, or round shapes
Many messaging and note apps also offer formatting buttons you can tap.
HTML & Unicode Options for Web or Code
If you’re coding or using HTML in a blog, you can insert bullets with these:
• <!– bullet point –>
• <!– same thing –>
Use these in WordPress, Markdown files, or any HTML-supported format when writing online.
Other Easy Methods: Copy, Paste, or Emojis
Don’t want to memorize shortcuts? Try one of these quick tips:
- Copy this bullet: •
- Use emoji bullets: ● ⦿
- Use formatting tools in apps like Notion, WordPress, or Canva that include bullets by default
I hope this guide helped you quickly find the right way to insert a bullet point. If you have a favorite trick or shortcut, feel free to share it!