% Percent Sign
Also called: per cent, percentage. The percent sign means "out of 100." 50% means 50 out of every 100, which is half.
How to type %
Hold Shift with your right pinky, then press the 5 key with your left pointer finger.
Meaning and fun facts
TypeRockets uses % for your accuracy score. 100% means every key you pressed was correct!
Common uses
- Scores: 95% accuracy
- Sales: 20% off
- Battery level: 80%
Fun example: I got 100% on my spelling test!
Typing tip
The percent sign is Shift + 5. In writing, put it right after the number with no space, like 50%. It means "out of 100," so 50% is half.
% at a glance
| Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Chromebook) | Shift + 5 |
|---|---|
| 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 + 37 (hold Alt, type the number on the number pad) |
| Unicode | U+0025 |
| 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 25: Numbers 1 to 5, 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 percent sign. It is also called per cent, percentage.
How do you type percent sign on a keyboard?
Hold Shift with your right pinky, then press the 5 key with your left pointer finger.
What does % mean?
The percent sign means "out of 100." 50% means 50 out of every 100, which is half.