How to Type the 'Not Equal to' Symbol (≠) on Different Devices

The 'not equal to' symbol (≠) is a mathematical symbol used to indicate that two quantities are not the same. This symbol comes in handy for various applications from academic writing to programming. In this guide, we'll explore multiple methods to type this symbol on different devices and platforms.

Overview of the 'Not Equal to' Symbol

The 'not equal to' symbol (≠) is used to denote that the values on either side of the symbol are not identical. For example, 87 ≠ 78. This symbol is widely recognized and used in mathematical, scientific, and technical writing.

Methods to Type the 'Not Equal to' Symbol on Different Devices

Windows

There are several methods to insert the 'not equal to' symbol on Windows devices, from using the Character Map to leveraging Alt Codes.

Using Alt Code: Hold down the Alt key and type 8800 on the numeric keypad. Ensure that Num Lock is on. Character Map: Open Character Map by clicking Start, then Programs, then Accessories, then System Tools, and finally Character Map. Find the 'not equal to' sign within the mathematical symbols and copy it.

Mac

On Mac devices, you can use a keyboard shortcut to input the symbol.

Using Keyboard Shortcut: Press Option .

HTML

In HTML, you can use the HTML entity ne; or its decimal equivalent 8800 to represent the 'not equal to' symbol.

LaTeX

In LaTeX, you can type the symbol using the shortcut neq.

Microsoft Word

In Microsoft Word, you can insert the 'not equal to' symbol by following these steps:

Go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols. Find and insert the 'not equal to' sign.

Markdown

In Markdown, if the platform supports it, you can type the symbol directly: #8800;.

Mobile Devices

On mobile phones, the process is generally similar to using the numeric keypad on Windows, but with a graphical overlay.

To type the 'not equal to' symbol on most mobile devices:

Press the 123 key. Press the key. Press and hold the key. A ≠ key will appear next to it. Move your finger to the ≠ key and the symbol will appear where your cursor is.

Common Usage

The 'not equal to' symbol has become ubiquitous since the widespread adoption of computers. It is commonly represented as ≠ or sometimes / as in "is greater than or less than." Some have even started using this format in written form, such as in the phrase: "The cost is not equal to or less than the budget."

You can also find an old style 'not equals to' symbol in various applications. For example, in Microsoft Word, you can use the Insert - Symbol menu to find and use this symbol.