Underscore (_): Here’s how to type it on PC and Smartphone

Have you ever wondered how to type that small dash at the bottom, called an underscore ? It’s a widely used symbol that you’ll find in web addresses, social media usernames, and even in program code.

Why is it important to know how to type?

It’s simple: if you don’t know it, you might have trouble typing a web address correctly or creating a secure password.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to type an underscore on any device: PC (Windows and Mac) and smartphone (iPhone and Android). You’ll see, it’s easier than you think!

So, keep reading and find out how to add this small but important special character to your keyboard .

Underscore on a Windows PC

Typing the underscore on a Windows PC is a piece of cake. You have two options, both of which are very simple:

1. Standard Method (Shift + -)

This is the most common method, and it works on all Windows keyboards:

1. Find the dash (-) key on your keyboard. It is usually located at the top right, near the “0” (zero) key.
2. Hold down the Shift key (the up arrow).
3. While holding down Shift , press the dash key (-).
4. Release both keys and voilà, the underscore (_) will appear on the screen!

2. Numeric Keypad (Alt + 95)

If your keyboard has a numeric keypad on the right, you can use this shortcut:

1. Make sure that the Num Lock key is on (there is usually a light that indicates this).
2. Hold down the Alt key.
3. While holding down Alt , type 95 on the numeric keypad.
4. Release the Alt key and the underscore (_) will appear!

Troubleshooting Common Problems on Windows

Sometimes, typing the underscore may not work as expected. Here are some solutions to the most common problems:

• The underscore does not appear: Check if the Num Lock key is active when using the numeric keypad method. If you are using the standard method, make sure you press the Shift and dash keys correctly.
• A different character appears: Check the keyboard layout in the Windows settings. It might be set to a different language, where the key combination produces another character.

If problems persist, try restarting your computer or searching for specific solutions online based on your keyboard model. Don’t worry, there’s usually a simple solution!

Underscore on PC Mac

Even on Mac, typing the underscore is simple. The basic method is the same as you use on Windows, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Standard Method (Shift + -)

As on Windows, press the Shift key and, while holding it down, press the dash key.

[Image of a Mac keyboard with the Shift and – keys highlighted]

But where is the dash key on a Mac?

It depends on the type of keyboard:

• Italian keyboard: The hyphen key is located at the top right, near the “0” (zero) key.
• International Keyboard: The hyphen key may be at the bottom, near the right Shift key.

If you can’t find the right key, look at the keyboard image above to see where it is.

2. Keyboard Layout

Sometimes, the keyboard layout can affect the position of the keys. If the standard method doesn’t work, check your Mac’s keyboard settings:

1. Go to the Apple menu () > System Preferences > Keyboard.
2. On the “Input Sources” tab, check which layout is active.
3. If necessary, change the layout to “Italian” or “Italian – Pro”.

With the correct layout, you should be able to type the underscore without any problems!

Underscore on a Smartphone

Don’t worry if you don’t have a physical keyboard; typing the underscore on your smartphone is still easy. Here’s how to do it:

1. Standard Keyboard

The method is similar on both iPhone (iOS) and Android:

1. Open the keyboard where you want to insert the underscore .
2. Tap the numbers and symbols key (it usually has the “123” icon).
3. Find the dash key (-) and hold it down for a few seconds.
4. A small menu with several options will appear, including the underscore (_).
5. Lift your finger to select it and voilà!

2. Emoji Keyboard

If you have the emoji keyboard enabled, you can also find the underscore there:

1. Open the emoji keyboard (it usually has a smiley face icon).
2. Look in the symbols section, often indicated by a star or heart-shaped icon.
3. Scroll until you find the underscore (_).
4. Tap to insert it.

Tips and Tricks for Smartphones

Here are some tricks to type the underscore even faster:

• Voice Dictation: If your phone has the voice dictation feature, say “underscore” and the phone will write it for you.
• Custom Keyboards: Download an alternative keyboard from the app store (such as Gboard or SwiftKey). Many of these keyboards have sections dedicated to symbols, where the underscore is easily accessible.
• Copy and Paste: If you need to insert the underscore often, copy it somewhere (for example, from this guide!) and paste it when you need it.

With these tips, the underscore will no longer hold any secrets for you, not even on your smartphone!

Common Uses of the Underscore

Now that you know how to type the underscore , let’s find out why it’s so important! This little symbol has many uses in the digital world:

1. Email Addresses

The underscore is often used in email addresses to separate the first and last name (e.g., mario_rossi@email.com) or to create addresses that are easier to remember.

2. Usernames

On many websites and social networks , the underscore is the only special character allowed in usernames. If your name is already in use, you can add it to make it unique (e.g., mario_rossi90).

3. Programming

In program code , the underscore is used to name variables, functions, and other elements. It helps make the code more readable and organized.

4. Other Uses

The underscore can also be used:

• In file names, use an underscore to separate words (e.g., final_report.pdf).
• In some markup languages, such as Markdown, to create special formatting (e.g., italic text ).
• On some websites, to create “hidden” or “friendly” links.

In short, the underscore is a true all-rounder in the digital world! Knowing its uses will help you navigate online more safely and better understand how websites and programs work.

Summary: How to Type the Underscore on Every Device

Here is a comparison table that summarizes the methods for typing the underscore on different devices:

Device	Standard Method	Numeric/Alternative Keypad	Additional Notes
Windows PC	Shift + –	Alt + 95 (with Num Lock on)	Check the keyboard layout if it’s not working.
Mac PC	Shift + –		The position of the “-” button may vary.
iPhone (iOS)	Press and hold – on the numeric keypad	Emoji Keyboard	Try voice dictation or custom keyboards.
Android	Press and hold – on the numeric keypad	Symbols Keyboard	Try voice dictation or custom keyboards.

A Dip into the Past: History and Fun Facts about the Underscore

The underscore is not a modern symbol. Its origins date back to old typewriters! At the time, it was used to underline words, since there was no key for italics or bold.

With the advent of computers, the underscore found new uses. In the 1970s, when email was taking its first steps, this symbol became essential. To separate first and last names in email addresses (e.g., [email address removed]), the underscore was chosen because many other symbols were not allowed.

Today, the underscore is a versatile character that has adapted to modern times. We use it in social media usernames, file names, and even in programming. Who would have imagined that a symbol created to underline words would become so important in the digital world?

Common Underscore Mistakes to Avoid

Although it seems like a simple symbol, the underscore can be confusing. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:

1. Confusing the Underscore and the Em Dash:
   • The underscore (_) is shorter and is at the bottom. The dash (–) is longer and is in the middle. Use them correctly to avoid misunderstandings.
2. Use an Underscore Instead of a Space:
   • Instead of writing “username”, use a space: “user name”. The underscore is used to join words, not to separate them.
3. Using Too Many Underscores:
   • A single underscore is sufficient to separate words. Avoid writing “username__” or “important___file”.
4. Using the Underscore Inconsistently:
   • If you use an underscore in a username or email address, try to keep it consistent. Don’t alternate between underscores and other symbols.

By following these simple tips, you will avoid common mistakes and use the underscore correctly and professionally.

Underscore on Other Operating Systems

So far, we’ve looked at how to type the underscore on Windows and Mac, the most common operating systems. But what if you use a different system?

Linux

On Linux, the method for typing the underscore is the same as on Windows and Mac: press the Shift key and, while holding it down, press the dash key.

The position of the dash key may vary depending on the keyboard and the Linux distribution you are using. Generally, it is located at the top right, near the “0” (zero) key.

Chrome OS

If you use a Chromebook with Chrome OS, the method is identical to that of Linux: Shift + dash .

Here, too, the position of the dash key may vary depending on your Chromebook’s keyboard.

Other Operating Systems

In general, the Shift + dash key combination works on most operating systems. If you have difficulty, check your keyboard settings or look for specific information for your operating system online.

Remember, typing the underscore is simple, no matter what operating system you use!

The Underscore and Accessibility

The underscore is not only a useful symbol for writing, but it also plays an important role in web accessibility .

For people with visual disabilities who use screen readers to navigate online, the underscore can make a difference. When used to separate words in a username or link, the screen reader can read it correctly, making the text easier to understand.

For example, the screen reader will read “username” as two separate words, instead of a single, incomprehensible word.

Even for people with motor difficulties , who may have problems typing certain symbols, the underscore is a simpler alternative to other special characters.

In short, using the underscore correctly not only makes the text clearer for everyone, but also helps to create a more inclusive and accessible web.

Practical Examples of Using the Underscore

Let’s look at some concrete examples of how the underscore is used in everyday life:

1. Email Addresses
   • nome_cognome@email.com (to separate first and last name)
   • info_supporto@azienda.com (to indicate a support address)
2. Social Media Usernames
   • @maria_rossi (on Twitter or Instagram)
   • nome_utente_123 (if your preferred name is already in use)
3. File and Folder Names
   • relazione_finale.pdf
   • foto_vacanza_202
4. Programming
   • nome_variabile (in Python)
   • function_name() (in JavaScript)
5. “Friendly” link (URL)
   • https://www.sito.com/articolo_sul_trattino_basso (easier to read and remember)

These are just a few examples. The underscore is a versatile character that can be used in many other ways. Experiment and discover how it can be useful to you!

Conclusions

We have reached the end of this guide on the underscore . We have seen how this small symbol, once used only for underlining, has become a key element in the digital world.

Now you know how to type it on PC (Windows and Mac) and smartphones (iPhone and Android), and you know its many uses: from email addresses to usernames, to program code.

Remember, using the underscore correctly is important not only for writing well, but also for making the web more accessible to everyone.

So, don’t be afraid to experiment! Use the underscore to create original usernames, organize your files, and even write code.

Frequently Asked Questions