Backslash on Mac: The Keyboard Shortcut

Type the backslash quickly with Option (Alt) + Shift + 7

By Sadaghian Team •
Backslash keys on a Mac keyboard

How to Type Backslash \ on Mac

  • Option (Alt) + Shift + 7 → Backslash \
  • Shift + 7 → Slash /
  • Option (Alt) + 7 → Pipe |

On German keyboards, the backslash is a third-level character and not printed on the key. Use Option (Alt) together with Shift and press 7.

Keyboard Not Working?

If characters can’t be typed due to a keyboard fault, we provide free analysis and professional keyboard repair. In many cases, cleaning or single key replacement is sufficient.

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FAQ

Is the shortcut different on US keyboards?

Yes. On US layouts, backslash has its own key above Return. Press that key without modifiers.

Does Option+Shift+7 work on all locales?

It applies to German layouts. Other locales may differ; check Keyboard Viewer in System Settings → Keyboard.

How do I type backslash in Terminal if the shortcut fails?

Enable Keyboard Viewer to confirm keys, or switch input source temporarily to U.S. and press the dedicated backslash key.

Keyboard issues?

Stuck keys or missing characters often indicate a hardware fault. We diagnose and repair keyboards quickly.

Contact us or see our keyboard repair page.

Author: Sadaghian Team

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