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symbol

Use to refer to a graphic or special character that represents something else, but differentiate a symbol from an icon. (An icon represents an object the customer can select and open. A symbol can appear on an icon.)

Follow these guidelines when discussing symbols:

  • Write out the name of the symbol in text and, if the symbol itself is important, enclose the symbol in parentheses. Use a symbol by itself only in tables and lists where space is limited or in mathematical expressions.
    Examples
    Enter a backslash (\) to return to the previous directory.
    Only 75 percent of the students attended.

  • For UI elements, such as buttons, you can use a graphic of the button by itself after it has been named once or if selecting it displays a definition.
    Examples
    Select the Minimize button (Screenshot of a gray square with a subtraction icon to indicate a screen can be minimized.).
    Select Screenshot of a gray square with a black X to indicate that a screen can be closed..

  • Write out the plurals of symbols, showing the use in parentheses. Don't add s or 's to a symbol.
    Example
    Enter two backslashes (\\) to show a network connection.

  • Don't insert a space between a number and the symbol it modifies.
    Examples
    75%
    <100

See also Special character term collection, Keys and keyboard shortcuts term collection