+ Plus Sign
Also called: plus, add sign. The plus sign means add. It also means "and more" or "positive."
How to type +
Hold Shift with your left pinky, then press the = key with your right pinky.
Meaning and fun facts
The + sign likely came from the Latin word "et," which means "and." It has been used in math books for over 500 years.
Common uses
- Adding: 2 + 3 = 5
- Phone numbers: +1
- Ratings: A+
- "and up": ages 6+
Fun example: 4 + 4 = 8
Typing tip
The plus sign is Shift + the equals key, way up on the number row. On a keyboard with a number pad, there is also a plus key on the right that needs no Shift.
+ at a glance
| Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Chromebook) | Shift + = |
|---|---|
| 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 + 43 (hold Alt, type the number on the number pad) |
| Unicode | U+002B |
| 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 plus sign. It is also called plus, add sign.
How do you type plus sign on a keyboard?
Hold Shift with your left pinky, then press the = key with your right pinky.
What does + mean?
The plus sign means add. It also means "and more" or "positive."