How To Get Em-Dash Without Numeric Keypad

Question

I have a new laptop from Microsoft that does not have a numeric keypad. When using Word 365 I am trying to insert an Em Dash. I've found multiple sources that indicate I can still use a keyboard shortcut to insert the Em Dash (such as https://www.shortquts.com/what-are-the-keyboard-shortcuts-with-alt-2/) by holding down the Alt key and pressing 0151. However, whenever I do that my computer instantly brings up the key tips (or the ribbon shortcuts) that correspond to the Alt key. So, pressing 0151 brings up some kind of autosave function for OneDrive. 

And no combination of holding down Alt or not holding down Alt seems to help.

Am I stuck with inserting Em Dashes the old fashioned way?

Answer 1

I have the same question except there are no character maps or shortcut set ups in Gmail or the Mail app. I went from Mac to Surface and this no shortcut for "em dash" is driving me nuts because all the answers that exist don't work for the simple case of writing an email in the Mail app or browser instance and/or quickly editing a google doc. Any ideas?

1. I prefer to not have to copy and paste every time (bc I would also have to paste without formatting, just an extra step)
2. I can't find a shortcuts bar for when I type in a browser
3. I do not have a numeric keypad

Thanks for your help!

Answer 2

Note that this thread is about Word. As far as I know, web browsers won't let you assign keyboard shortcuts to insert special characters. If you are using a Microsoft Surface, you can make use of the Windows Character Map, though.

Answer 3

Thanks for your reply, Stefan, and understood. 

I'm just aghast at the fact that Microsoft wouldn't think of a simple character that often used in writing as a shortcut to the hyphen key that already exists. Mind-blowing. 

I'll use your rec with the Microsoft Character Map and Pin it to the taskbar for the quickest reference solution laid out.

Answer 4

Your keyboard may offer a way to make use of Alt+0151 even though there is no numeric keypad. For example, HP and Dell make use of the Fn key for that purpose, at least on some computer models. Check the documentation.