How to Insert the Paragraph Symbol ( ¶ ) on Linux

Looking to refer to a paragraph (or write about formatting) in short and symbolic form? Find out here how to insert the paragraph symbol ( ¶ ) on Linux using Gnome and KDE.

First, Two Wings for Singing

Birds, like humans, have two wings for respiration.

While we humans have a soundbox in the tube, though, that forms the trachea and later splits up to reach each lung, birds have theirs (the syrinx) right at that junction. So, instead of one slit that produces sound, they have two.

This is how birds can sound two distinct notes at the same time, and sing two concurrent melodies even.

Now, want to insert not one paragraph into your document but two or more—and possibly one paragraph (as a symbol) into another?

How to Insert the Paragraph Symbol ( ¶ ) on Linux

Using the US-English International Keyboard Layout

Here, for instance: How to Add the Paragraph Symbol ( ¶ ) in Word

Using the “Compose” Key

To insert the pilcrow with the help of the Linux “Compose” key:

1. Set up and enable the “Compose” key.
2. Position the text cursor where you want to insert the paragraph sign.
3. Press the key set up to act as Compose.
4. Now press P and Shift 1 (!) in succession.
   Alternative: You can also press Shift P twice for PP.

Using the Unicode Code Point

To input the paragraph sign with its Unicode code point on Linux:

1. Put the text insertion cursor where you want the pilcrow to appear.
2. Press Ctrl Shift U.
   Here’s what happens: You will see u (the character ‘u’ with an underline).
3. Type 00B6.
   Also: The code point is not case sensitive, of course, and 00b6 works as well.
4. Now press Enter.

How to Insert the Paragraph Symbol ( ¶ ) on Linux: FAQ

Can I paste the paragraph sign?

Yes.

You can copy the paragraph symbol below and paste it anywhere in Linux, of course.

Paragraph symbol ¶

copy

(How to insert the paragraph symbol ( ¶ ) on Linux tested with Gnome 45–46 and KDE Plasma 5–6; first published February 2024, last updated January 2025)