^ Caret
Also called: hat, circumflex, up arrow. The caret often means "to the power of" on computers, so 2^3 means 2 × 2 × 2.
How to type ^
Hold Shift with your left pinky, then press the 6 key with your right pointer finger.
Meaning and fun facts
Editors used a caret by hand to show where a missing word should be added. It looks like a little hat, so some people call it "hat."
Common uses
- Exponents: 10^2 = 100
- Editing marks: insert here
- Text faces: ^_^
Fun example: 2^3 = 8
Typing tip
The caret is Shift + 6, the little hat. In math on computers it means "to the power of," so 2^3 means 2 × 2 × 2, which is 8.
^ at a glance
| Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Chromebook) | Shift + 6 |
|---|---|
| Phone or tablet | On an iPhone, tap 123 and then #+= to see it. On Android (Gboard), tap ?123 and then =\< if it is not on the first page. |
| Windows Alt code | Alt + 94 (hold Alt, type the number on the number pad) |
| Unicode | U+005E |
| HTML code | ^ |
Quick practice drill
Type the examples below. The keyboard shows which finger and Shift key to use.
Want more? Practice this reach in Lesson 26: Numbers 6 to 0, or warm up with typing practice and Falling Words.
Related symbols
See all symbols in Keyboard Characters and Meanings.
FAQ
What is the ^ symbol called?
^ is called the caret. It is also called hat, circumflex, up arrow.
How do you type caret on a keyboard?
Hold Shift with your left pinky, then press the 6 key with your right pointer finger.
What does ^ mean?
The caret often means "to the power of" on computers, so 2^3 means 2 × 2 × 2.