Instructions for generating Spanish characters in Microsoft Word on an Apple computer

Here are some of the more common key strokes needed in order to create Spanish-language characters not included in the standard keyboard:

"Option" + "e" then "a, e, i, o, or u" produces the accented vowels

Be sure to depress the "Option" and "e" keys simultaneously and then release them before typing the letter which you wish to accent. To produce accented capital consonants and vowels, press "Option" and "e" keys simultaneously and then "Shift" plus the letter you wish to write.

"Option" + "n" then "n" produces the "ñ" needed in many Spanish words

Again, the "Option" and "n" keys must be pressed simultaneously and then released before typing "n". Note: this key sequence ("Option" + "n") may be used with other letters to create the "~" mark as a superscript. The "n" must still be pressed simultaneously with the "Option key", but then another letter may be selected. For example, "Option" + "n" then "a" or "o" creates the nasalized vowels—"ã" and "õ"—used in Portuguese and Gallego.

"Option" + "u" then "u" creates the "ü"

"Option" + "Shift" + "/" creates the "upside-down" question mark: "¿"

It is the same sequence used to create a normal question mark ("Shift" + "/"), preceded by the option key. In this case, all keys must be pressed simultaneously.

"Option" + "1" creates the "upside-down" exclamation point: "¡"

DO NOT use the "Shift" key to create this character.

On most Macintosh computers, you will find a file entitled "Key Caps" (this file can be found in the System Folder and can sometimes be found under the Apple Menu as well). If you open this file, a facsimile of the keyboard will appear. While the file is open, you can practice creating certain characters and learn what key strokes you can use to include these characters in any document. Most characters are generated using the "Option" key. Try pressing the "Option" key and the "Option" and "Shift" keys to see what characters become available.