What the Option key does
Option is the Mac modifier for alternative characters and alternative actions. Held while typing a letter it produces symbols and accents (Option+E then a letter gives an acute accent, Option+G gives ©). Held while clicking or choosing a menu item it reveals hidden options.
It is also the key macOS maps to Alt on Windows keyboards, so Windows and Mac shortcuts that use Alt and Option usually correspond.
On a Mac
This is the native Mac key. Its symbol ⌥ is Unicode U+2325. Common uses: Option+Command+Esc to force quit, Option while clicking the Wi‑Fi icon for diagnostics, Option+Shift+volume for fine volume steps.
On a laptop
On a MacBook both Option keys are full size. On a Windows keyboard connected to a Mac, the Alt keys act as Option and the Windows key acts as Command; you can swap them in System Settings → Keyboard → Modifier Keys.
Shortcuts that use the Option key
| Shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|
| Option+Command+Esc | Force Quit dialog |
| Option+E, then a vowel | Acute accent (é) |
| Option+G | Copyright symbol © |
| Option+Shift+8 | Degree symbol ° |
| Option+Delete | Delete the previous word |
| Option+click a menu | Reveal alternative menu items |
If the Option key is missing or not working
If Option does nothing on a Windows keyboard attached to a Mac, use Alt, or remap modifiers in System Settings. If Option+letter types plain letters, an input source without dead keys may be active; switch back to ABC or U.S.
Test it here: click the tester, press the key, and it should light up green. A red key is stuck; a key that never lights up is dead or intercepted by the system. The full keyboard tester has the press log and more detail.
Click the tester, then press any key. Browser shortcuts are blocked while it has focus.
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- code
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- keyCode
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none
Max at once: 0 (rollover)
None detected. A key held for more than 2 seconds is flagged.
Frequently asked questions
Which key is Option on a Windows keyboard? +
The Alt key. When a Windows keyboard is connected to a Mac, Alt becomes Option and the Windows key becomes Command.
What is the Option key symbol? +
⌥, called the option key symbol, Unicode U+2325. It appears in Mac menus next to shortcuts.
Is Option the same as Alt? +
Functionally yes: Option is Apple's name for the Alt modifier. Older Apple keyboards printed both "alt" and "option" on the key.
How do I type symbols with the Option key? +
Hold Option and press a letter; for example Option+2 gives ™ and Option+Shift+2 gives €. See our Mac keyboard symbols guide for the full map.