Equal sign

ASCII Code: 61•Category: math

The equal sign (=) represents mathematical equality and assignment operations, serving as the fundamental symbol for balance, equivalence, and value assignment across all quantitative fields.

Technical Details

ASCII Code: 61
HTML Entity: =
Hexadecimal: 0x3D
Binary: 00111101
Octal: 75

Usage & Examples

Programming

char symbol = '='; // ASCII 61

HTML/Web

= or =

Common Uses

equalequalsassignmentmathematicsprogrammingbalance

How to Type This Character

Windows

Alt Code:

Hold Alt and type61 on numeric keypad

Character Map:

Search "Character Map" in Start menu

Mac

Character Viewer:

Press Ctrl +Cmd +Space

Copy & Paste:

Easiest method - copy from this page!

💡 Pro tip: The fastest way is to bookmark this page or copy the character from our ASCII library!

Related Characters

About the Equal sign

Mathematical Equality

Forms the backbone of mathematical equations, algebraic expressions, and problem-solving across all levels of mathematics education. Represents the concept of balance and equivalence that is fundamental to mathematical thinking and logical reasoning.

Programming Assignment

Essential for variable assignment and value binding in programming languages (x = 5, name = 'John'). Enables data storage, state management, and computational operations in software development and algorithmic thinking.

Equation Solving

Central to algebraic manipulation, equation solving, and mathematical proofs. The equal sign enables students and researchers to express relationships, solve problems, and communicate mathematical ideas precisely.

Balance Concept

Represents the philosophical and mathematical concept of balance, fairness, and equivalence that extends beyond mathematics into social, legal, and ethical contexts where equality is valued.

History of the Equal sign

1557

Welsh Innovation

Robert Recorde introduced the = symbol in 'The Whetstone of Witte,' choosing two parallel lines because 'no two things can be more equal' than parallel lines of the same length.

1600s

Mathematical Adoption

European mathematicians gradually adopted Recorde's equal sign, replacing earlier notation methods and establishing the symbol's role in algebraic expression and equation solving.

1700s

Educational Standard

Mathematics curricula worldwide standardized the equal sign for arithmetic and algebra instruction, making it fundamental to mathematical literacy and education.

1950s

Computer Programming

Programming languages adopted = for variable assignment and comparison operations, extending its meaning from mathematical equality to computational state management.

1960s

Calculator Integration

Electronic calculators featured the = key for executing calculations, cementing its role in practical mathematics and everyday computational tasks.

Cultural Impact

The equal sign became a universal symbol of balance, fairness, and mathematical truth, influencing not only mathematical education but also concepts of equality and justice in broader society.

Usage Examples

Basic Mathematics

Example

2 + 3 = 5, x + 7 = 12, Area = length × width

Fundamental arithmetic and algebraic equations

Programming Assignment

Example

let age = 25; const PI = 3.14159; result = calculation();

Variable assignment and value binding in code

Scientific Formulas

Example

E = mc², F = ma, PV = nRT (ideal gas law)

Physical laws and scientific relationships

Calculator Operations

Example

Enter: 125 + 67 = (displays 192), Chain: 10 × 5 = 50

Practical calculation and computational tools