If you are writing Spanish papers or reports for school, it is essential that you know how to type in the accent marks. Going back and trying to write them in is not only inefficient, but can cause errors. First, if you are working in Word, select the language to Spanish. I usually choose Mexican Spanish, but you can choose whichever regional Spanish you think is the most accurate. Then, make sure you do a spell check. Word will catch many of your errors, but remember, it is not 100% correct and you also need to use your own brain and training to make decisions.

So here are the codes for typing characters in Spanish. First turn your number lock key on, then, while holding down the ALT key, enter the 3-digit decimal code for the extended ASCII character you want to generate. For example, if you want to write an ñ, first you have to know the ASCII code which is alt 164.To write an ñ, press and hold the ALT key. (in this case 164) then release the ALT key. You should be able to do this in almost any program. 

If it worked then you will be able to use all the Spanish characters. The only problem is knowing which numbers to use: Here is a list of Spanish characters with their ALT numbers.

Note: According to the powers that be at the RAE (Real Academia Española), it is still obligatory to use accents with capital letters. However, it is very common to see unaccented capital letters and in certain places, it is difficult to actually do.

• Á 0193
• É 0201
• Ú 0218
• Í 0205
• Ó 0211
• Ñ 165 

By the way: Here are a few more useful “alt” numbers:

• ÷ 246
• ½ 171
• ¼ 172
• £ 156

–Bendiciones