Footnote symbols help readers find additional information without interrupting the main text. You’ll often see them in academic papers, books, research articles, legal documents, and professional publications.

The asterisk (*) is probably the most familiar example. However, it isn’t the only symbol writers use. The dagger (†), double dagger (‡), section sign (§), and pilcrow (¶) also appear in different editorial and reference systems.

Each symbol serves a particular purpose. Some identify explanatory notes, while others point to sections, paragraphs, or legal references.

Understanding these marks makes your writing easier to follow. It also helps you avoid common formatting mistakes when preparing documents.

In this guide, you’ll learn what the most common footnote symbols mean, how their traditional order works, and where to place them. You’ll also discover how footnotes differ from endnotes and how to insert special characters in Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

What Are Footnote Symbols?

Footnote symbols are small typographical marks that connect information in the main text to additional notes. They help readers find explanations, source details, and other relevant information.

Writers usually place these marks beside a word, phrase, sentence, or specific item. The matching note then appears at the bottom of the page or another designated location.

For example:

The library opened its rare-book collection to the public in 1925.*

At the bottom of the page, the corresponding note might read:

• The collection originally contained more than 2,000 volumes.

The asterisk tells readers that additional information accompanies the statement. Without it, readers might miss the supplementary detail.

Why Are Footnote Symbols Used?

Footnote markers serve several important purposes in professional and academic writing.

• Identifying sources: They connect statements to citations and references.
• Providing explanations: They clarify unfamiliar terms, historical details, or technical information.
• Adding qualifications: They identify exceptions, limitations, and special conditions.
• Acknowledging contributions: They help recognize copyright permissions, authorship, and other credits.
• Improving readability: They keep lengthy explanations outside the main paragraph.
• Supporting research: They give readers additional information without disrupting the discussion.

Consider a research paper discussing an unusual scientific term. Instead of explaining its entire history in the paragraph, the writer can add a footnote. Readers who want more detail can consult the note while everyone else continues reading.

Footnote Symbols vs. Footnote Numbers

Footnote symbols and footnote numbers perform the same basic function. However, they differ in appearance and application.

Most academic documents use numbered references because numbers are easy to organize. Symbolic markers work well when a publication needs only a few additional notes.

For example, the Chicago Notes and Bibliography system uses superscript numbers that correspond to numbered footnotes or endnotes.

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Where Do Footnotes Appear?

The location depends on the document’s formatting requirements.

Common footnote locations include:

• Bottom of the page: The traditional placement for footnotes.
• End of a chapter: Common in books and longer publications.
• End of a document: Used when the writer collects notes in one section.
• Below a table or figure: Used for explanations that apply specifically to that visual element.

A footnote usually appears on the same page as its reference. However, some formatting systems allow notes to appear together on a separate page.

The United Nations Editorial Manual, for example, places ordinary text footnotes at the bottom of the page. It also provides separate instructions for notes attached to tables, figures, and boxed text.

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Common Footnote Symbols and Their Meanings

Several typographical characters can identify footnotes or provide related references. Their meanings and applications depend on the publication.

The most recognizable examples include the asterisk, dagger, double dagger, section sign, double vertical line, and pilcrow.

Common symbols at a glance

Not every publication uses all these characters as footnote markers. Some belong primarily to other writing conventions.

Asterisk (*) — The Most Recognizable Footnote Symbol

*

Asterisk

Unicode: U+002A

Common name: Star or asterisk

The asterisk symbol (*) is one of the most widely recognized marks in written communication. Its name comes from the Greek word asteriskos, meaning little star.

In footnotes, the asterisk connects a statement to an accompanying explanation. It often appears when a writer needs to add a short qualification or provide supplementary information.

Example:

All registered participants receive complimentary admission.*

• Complimentary admission does not include special exhibition tickets.

The asterisk appears directly after the relevant statement. Readers can then locate the matching explanation.

Beyond footnotes, writers use asterisks for several other purposes:

• Replacing letters in censored words.
• Highlighting special conditions or exceptions.
• Marking corrections in online conversations.
• Separating sections in creative writing.
• Representing multiplication in computer programming and mathematics.

However, context determines its meaning. An asterisk in a research paper might indicate a footnote, while one in a product advertisement might identify an important qualification.

Dagger (†) — The Second Common Footnote Marker

†

Dagger

Unicode: U+2020

Alternative name: Obelisk

The dagger symbol (†) resembles a small cross. Typographers also call it an obelisk.

Some publishing traditions use the dagger after the asterisk when a document needs another symbolic footnote marker.

For example:

The museum acquired the collection in 1985.* Its original owner donated several additional manuscripts.†

Corresponding notes might appear as follows:

• The acquisition included approximately 400 historical documents.

† The additional manuscripts arrived during a separate donation.

The dagger also appears outside footnote systems. In some biographical references, it indicates a person’s death. Dictionaries and other reference works may use it for specialized purposes.

Its exact meaning depends on the surrounding text and editorial convention.

Double Dagger (‡) — Another Footnote Reference Symbol

‡

Double dagger

Unicode: U+2021

Alternative name: Diesis

The double dagger symbol (‡) consists of two horizontal bars crossing a vertical line. It resembles the single dagger but contains an additional crossbar.

Traditional reference systems may use it after the asterisk and dagger. It helps distinguish another footnote when several notes appear together.

Example:

The first edition appeared in 1910.* A revised edition followed in 1924.† The publisher released a final printing in 1931.‡

The corresponding notes identify three separate publication details.

The double dagger also appears in mathematical, linguistic, and scholarly notation. Therefore, readers should interpret it according to its context rather than automatically assuming it indicates a footnote.

Section Sign (§) — A Marker for Sections and References

§

Section sign

Unicode: U+00A7

Common name: Section symbol

The section sign (§) identifies a particular section of a document, law, regulation, or other organized text.

Legal writers frequently use it to reference specific statutory provisions.

For example:

The requirement appears in § 12 of the relevant regulation.

When referencing multiple sections, writers commonly double the symbol:

§§ 12–15

Although some traditional footnote sequences include the section sign, its primary purpose remains section identification.

It shouldn’t be confused with an ordinary footnote marker. A reader encountering § in a legal document will generally understand it as a reference to a section.

Pilcrow (¶) — The Paragraph Symbol

¶

Pilcrow

Unicode: U+00B6

Alternative name: Paragraph sign

The pilcrow symbol (¶) represents a paragraph or paragraph break. Editors, proofreaders, and legal writers use it to identify particular paragraphs within documents.

For example:

See ¶ 4 for the complete explanation.

In Microsoft Word, the pilcrow also appears as a formatting mark when you enable the Show/Hide feature. It identifies paragraph endings and helps editors inspect document structure.

The pilcrow has a different primary function from an asterisk. However, some traditional typographical reference systems include it as a specialized reference mark.

Double Vertical Line (‖) and Other Specialized Marks

‖

Double vertical line

Unicode: U+2016

Alternative name: Double vertical line or parallel

The double vertical line (‖) consists of two parallel vertical strokes. It appears in specialized mathematical, linguistic, and typographical contexts.

In mathematics, it can represent the norm of a vector or another quantity. Its meaning changes with the notation being used.

Some traditional publishing systems also include it in extended footnote-reference sequences.

Other specialized marks may appear in reference works and older printed publications. However, writers should avoid introducing unusual symbols without a clear reason.

The practical rule: Use the symbol your publisher or style guide requires. Don’t assume every traditional mark belongs in every modern document.

Footnote Symbols in Order: Which Symbol Comes First?

The traditional order of footnote symbols helps readers distinguish multiple notes within a document.

However, different publications follow different sequences. Some use repeated asterisks, while others use individual typographical symbols.

Understanding these variations prevents confusion when preparing academic papers, books, and editorial documents.

Standard Order of Footnote Symbols

A traditional extended sequence appears as follows:

This sequence appears in traditional typographical references, including an older United Nations editorial manual.

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However, the current online United Nations Editorial Manual specifies a different sequence for its particular publication system:

The UN manual also explains that numbers replace symbols when more than seven footnotes are needed.

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These differences demonstrate why writers shouldn’t treat one sequence as universal.

What Symbol Comes After an Asterisk?

The answer depends on the reference system.

In the traditional individual-symbol sequence, the dagger (†) follows the asterisk (*).

However, the current UN convention repeats asterisks before moving to the dagger:

• First note: *
• Second note: **
• Third note: ***
• Fourth note: ****
• Fifth note: †

Both systems have legitimate editorial applications. Follow the required style rather than combining their sequences.

What Comes After a Dagger in Footnotes?

The double dagger (‡) commonly follows the single dagger in traditional symbolic notation.

For example:

• First explanatory note.

• † Second explanatory note.
• ‡ Third explanatory note.

The distinction makes it easier to identify individual notes without relying on numbers.

Some publications use additional symbols when necessary. Others switch to superscript numbers because repeated special characters become difficult to read.

What Happens When a Document Has Too Many Footnotes?

Symbolic references work best when a document contains only a few notes.

Imagine a page with 15 different footnotes. Repeating asterisks or introducing several unusual characters could make the references harder to follow.

For longer documents, numerical footnotes offer a more practical solution.

Writers can use:

• Consecutive numbering throughout the document.
• Separate numbering for each chapter.
• Independent numbering for individual articles.
• Lowercase letters for notes attached to tables or figures, where the style permits.

The United Nations Editorial Manual describes these different approaches for its documents and publications.

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How to Use Footnote Symbols Correctly

Using a footnote symbol involves more than inserting a special character. You must connect the marker to the correct note and make the relationship clear.

A misplaced or unmatched marker can confuse readers and weaken an otherwise well-organized document.

How to Insert a Footnote Symbol in a Sentence

Follow these basic steps:

1. Identify the statement that needs additional information.
2. Choose the appropriate footnote marker.
3. Place the marker next to the relevant word or sentence.
4. Add the corresponding note in the designated location.
5. Check that both markers match.
6. Follow the publication’s formatting rules.

Example:

The university introduced its environmental policy in 2018.*

• The original policy covered energy use, recycling, and water conservation.

The asterisk immediately connects the sentence to the additional explanation.

If the document contains several notes, make sure each marker points to the correct information.

How to Write an Asterisk Footnote

An asterisk footnote usually consists of two matching parts:

• The reference mark in the main text.
• The corresponding explanation in the footnote area.

For example:

Main text:

All employees must complete the annual safety assessment.*

Footnote:

• Employees hired during the final quarter may complete the assessment during the following calendar year.

The note clarifies an exception without making the original sentence unnecessarily complicated.

When writing explanatory footnotes, keep the information relevant. Readers shouldn’t have to search through unrelated details to understand the note.

How to Use Multiple Footnote Symbols on One Page

When a page contains multiple symbolic notes, give each reference a distinct marker.

For example:

The first exhibition opened in 1975.* The museum expanded its collection in 1982.† A new research center followed in 1990.‡

The corresponding notes might read:

• The exhibition featured regional paintings and historical photographs.

† The expansion added a dedicated conservation department.

‡ The research center specializes in archival preservation.

Each symbol identifies one specific explanation.

If you repeat a symbol because several items share the same qualification, make sure the corresponding note clearly covers every relevant item.

How to Format Footnotes in Academic Writing

Academic footnotes require consistent formatting and accurate references.

Although individual style guides differ, most systems share several basic principles:

• Place reference markers consistently.
• Match every callout to its corresponding note.
• Use the required superscript or numerical format.
• Include complete source information when necessary.
• Keep explanatory notes focused.
• Follow the required spacing and indentation rules.

For example, a Chicago-style paper generally uses superscript numbers in the text. The corresponding notes contain the relevant source information.

APA also uses superscript numerical markers for its footnotes. Its guidance distinguishes content notes from copyright attribution notes.

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Asterisk Meaning and Its Uses in Writing

The asterisk has several functions beyond identifying footnotes. Understanding these applications helps readers recognize the symbol in different forms of communication.

What Does an Asterisk Mean in Writing?

An asterisk is a star-shaped typographical character. Writers use it to highlight information, indicate omissions, identify notes, and represent special conditions.

Its meaning depends on where it appears.

For example, a product advertisement might say:

Free delivery on orders over $50.*

The asterisk signals that an additional condition applies. The explanation might specify that delivery is free only within selected regions.

When Should You Use an Asterisk?

Use an asterisk when you need to draw attention to a related explanation or convention.

Common situations include:

• Adding a footnote to a statement.
• Explaining an exception to a general rule.
• Identifying a special qualification.
• Masking offensive or sensitive language.
• Correcting a previous message.
• Separating sections in informal or creative writing.

However, avoid using an asterisk simply to decorate ordinary sentences. Every symbol should have a clear purpose.

Asterisk as a Footnote Reference

The most relevant application for this article is its role as a reference marker.

Writers use an asterisk to direct readers toward information that supports or qualifies the main statement.

Example:

The membership includes access to all permanent galleries.*

• Temporary exhibitions require a separate ticket.

The asterisk helps preserve the flow of the main paragraph. Readers who need the additional detail can consult the footnote.

Asterisk for Censoring Words and Names

Asterisks also replace letters when writers want to conceal part of a word.

For example:

• s**t — Partially censored profanity.
• J*** S***** — A partially concealed name.
• p***word — A masked word in an illustrative example.

This practice appears in newspapers, online discussions, entertainment publications, and digital communication.

However, masking a name with asterisks doesn’t guarantee anonymity. Readers may still identify the person from surrounding information.

Formal documents that require privacy protection should use proper redaction rather than relying on decorative character replacement.

Asterisk as a Section Break in Creative Writing

Creative writers sometimes use three asterisks to separate sections within a chapter.

For example:

The divider signals a transition between scenes or passages.

Writers may use it to indicate:

• A change in time.
• A change in location.
• A shift in perspective.
• A break between separate scenes.
• A transition to another part of the story.

In longer publications, dedicated section-break formatting may work better. Still, the three-asterisk divider remains a familiar option in manuscripts and digital writing.

Asterisk in Text Messages and Online Communication

In informal communication, an asterisk often corrects a previous message.

For example:

I’ll arrive at 7:30.

*7:00

The second message corrects the earlier time.

People also use asterisks to emphasize actions in role-playing conversations or informal storytelling.

For example:

laughs That was unexpected!

These uses differ from formal footnote notation. The surrounding conversation tells readers what the symbol means.

Asterisk Placement and Punctuation Rules

Correct asterisk placement matters because footnote markers must clearly connect to the intended statement.

Most English-language editorial systems place footnote indicators after the relevant punctuation. However, the exact rule depends on the style guide.

Does an Asterisk Go Before or After Punctuation?

In many English-language publications, the asterisk follows the punctuation mark.

For example:

Correct under common English editorial conventions:

The research produced promising results.*

Incorrect under the same convention:

The research produced promising results*.

The marker should appear after the period because it refers to the completed statement.

The United Nations Editorial Manual follows this approach for English documents. It also specifies different placement conventions for French and Spanish publications.

United Nations

Does an Asterisk Go Before or After a Period?

Place the asterisk after the period when it refers to the complete sentence.

Example:

The organization established its first regional office in 1998.*

The corresponding footnote appears below the text:

• The office initially served three neighboring countries.

This arrangement keeps the sentence’s punctuation intact while directing readers toward the note.

Where Does an Asterisk Go After a Comma?

When a footnote marker relates to a statement ending with a comma, common English conventions place it after the comma.

Example:

The first group received additional training,* while the remaining participants followed the standard program.

The footnote might explain:

• The additional training covered specialized equipment and emergency procedures.

However, the marker’s position should always make its connection to the intended text clear.

Asterisk Placement With Question Marks and Exclamation Points

The same general principle applies to question marks and exclamation points.

Examples:

• The project finished ahead of schedule!*
• Did the original agreement include this condition?*

The asterisk follows the sentence-ending punctuation.

This placement helps readers distinguish the sentence’s punctuation from its reference marker.

Asterisk Placement With Quotation Marks

Quotation marks introduce another common punctuation question.

In American English, periods and commas generally appear inside closing quotation marks. Footnote markers then follow the closing quotation mark and its punctuation when they refer to the quoted statement.

Example:

The researcher described the discovery as “an unexpected breakthrough.”*

The corresponding note might identify the original publication or explain the historical context.

However, placement can change depending on whether the note refers to the quotation itself, the complete sentence, or a source cited within it.

For academic work, follow the relevant style guide rather than relying on a general punctuation shortcut.

Asterisk Placement With Dashes

Dashes require special attention because some editorial conventions position footnote indicators before them.

For example:

The first experiment produced an unexpected result*—although the researchers couldn’t initially explain why.

Here, the asterisk belongs to the statement before the em dash.

Chicago-style guidance also places superscript note numbers after most punctuation but before a dash.

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Remember: The punctuation mark and reference marker serve different purposes. Place both according to the publication’s rules.

Footnote Symbols vs. Other Reference Systems

Footnote symbols are only one way to connect readers with supplementary information. Writers also use numerical notes, endnotes, and in-text citations.

Understanding these systems helps you choose the most suitable method for a particular document.

Footnotes vs. Endnotes

Footnotes and endnotes provide additional information outside the main body of a document. Their biggest difference involves placement.

Footnotes appear close to the information they explain. This makes them convenient for readers who want immediate clarification.

Endnotes collect references in one location. They can create a cleaner page layout, especially in lengthy publications.

Neither system is automatically better. The right choice depends on the document’s purpose and formatting requirements.

Footnote Symbols vs. Superscript Numbers

A symbolic footnote marker might look like an asterisk (*), dagger (†), or double dagger (‡).

A numerical marker uses raised numbers such as ¹, ², and ³.

The difference becomes important when a document contains many references.

Consider these examples:

Symbolic system:

The first building opened in 1905.* The second followed in 1912.†

Numerical system:

The first building opened in 1905.¹ The second followed in 1912.²

Both examples connect statements to additional notes. However, numerical systems are easier to expand without introducing unfamiliar characters.

Chicago’s Notes and Bibliography system uses superscript numbers for its standard footnote and endnote references.

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Footnotes vs. In-Text Citations

An in-text citation identifies a source directly within the main text. A footnote places additional information in a separate note.

For example, an author-date citation might look like this:

Regular exercise supports cardiovascular health (Smith, 2024).

A footnote-based reference might look like this:

Regular exercise supports cardiovascular health.¹

The corresponding footnote then provides the source details.

These systems serve related but different purposes.

• In-text citations: Identify sources within the paragraph.
• Bibliographic footnotes: Provide source information in notes.
• Explanatory footnotes: Add context or clarification.
• Endnotes: Collect notes at the end of a section or document.

Some writing systems combine citations with explanatory notes. Others prefer a single consistent approach.

Asterisk vs. Dagger vs. Double Dagger

These three characters are among the most recognizable symbolic footnote markers.

*

Asterisk

First marker

†

Dagger

Second marker

‡

Double dagger

Third marker

All three can identify supplementary notes, although their exact order depends on the editorial system.

The asterisk is the most familiar of the three. The dagger and double dagger provide additional options when a document needs multiple symbolic references.

Their shapes also make them easy to distinguish in printed material.

Footnote Formatting Rules Across Different Writing Styles

Academic and professional publications often follow established style guides. These guides explain how writers should format notes, references, punctuation, and other editorial elements.

Although their requirements overlap, they don’t always use identical conventions.

Chicago Style Footnotes

• Notes and Bibliography.
• Author-Date.

The Notes and Bibliography system is especially common in history, literature, and other humanities subjects.

It uses superscript numbers in the main text. Each number corresponds to a numbered footnote or endnote.

Example:

Historical records show that the settlement expanded during the nineteenth century.¹

The corresponding note contains the relevant source information.

Chicago-style notes can also include brief explanations when necessary. This approach allows writers to provide additional context without overloading their paragraphs.

For most academic documents, use the numerical system rather than inventing a symbolic sequence.

APA Style Footnotes

Content footnotes: These provide supplementary explanations that would interrupt the main discussion.

Copyright attribution footnotes: These acknowledge copyright information when required.

APA uses superscript numbers to identify footnotes. Its guidance also explains their placement and formatting.

For example:

The original questionnaire contained 25 items.¹

The corresponding footnote provides a brief explanation or attribution.

APA recommends keeping content notes focused and relevant. If an explanation becomes lengthy, placing it in the main text may improve readability.

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MLA Style Footnotes

MLA notes generally serve two purposes:

• Content notes: Provide useful explanations or additional discussion.
• Bibliographic notes: Direct readers toward other relevant publications.

For example, an author discussing a literary movement might use a note to identify another scholar’s interpretation.

MLA generally discourages excessive explanatory notes. Writers should include them only when they genuinely improve the discussion.

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United Nations Editorial Conventions

The United Nations maintains an editorial manual for preparing official documents, publications, and other written material.

Its footnote guidelines explain several types of reference indicators, including numbers, lowercase letters, asterisks, and other symbols.

The manual generally uses numbered notes in document text. It also allows special symbols when a particular situation requires a different system.

For certain UN documents, the symbolic sequence uses:

• **
• †
• ‡
• §

The manual provides detailed guidance about marker placement, repeated references, and the position of symbolic notes relative to numbered notes.

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Why Footnote Rules Differ Between Publications

Different publications have different editorial needs.

A scientific research paper may contain dozens of references. A short magazine article might need only one explanatory note.

Legal documents also require precise section references and consistent terminology.

These differences explain why publishers don’t follow one universal footnote system.

When preparing a document, check the publisher’s instructions before choosing a reference system.

How to Insert Footnote Symbols on a Computer

You don’t need specialized publishing software to insert common footnote symbols. Most computers and word-processing applications support these characters.

You can type some directly, while others require a character menu or Unicode input method.

How to Insert an Asterisk on a Keyboard

On a standard US keyboard layout, press:

Shift + 8 = *

The asterisk appears in the text wherever your cursor sits.

However, a normal asterisk isn’t automatically formatted as a superscript footnote marker.

To create a raised asterisk, select the character and apply superscript formatting in your word processor.

How to Insert a Dagger and Double Dagger

The dagger and double dagger aren’t usually printed as separate keys on standard keyboards.

Their Unicode values make them easier to identify and insert.

Unicode provides a standard character identification system. This helps computers represent special characters consistently across different applications.

Unicode 18.0.0

On Windows:

• Open Character Map.
• Search for the required symbol.
• Select the character.
• Copy it.
• Paste it into your document.

On macOS:

• Open Character Viewer using the available keyboard shortcut or menu.
• Search for the symbol by name.
• Select the required character.
• Insert it into your document.

The exact input method may vary by operating system and keyboard configuration.

How to Add Footnotes in Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word includes a built-in footnote function that automatically manages reference numbers and note placement.

Follow these steps:

1. Open your Word document.
2. Place the cursor where you want the footnote reference.
3. Select the References tab.
4. Click Insert Footnote.
5. Word inserts a superscript number in the text.
6. The cursor moves to the footnote area at the bottom of the page.
7. Type the corresponding explanation or source information.

Word automatically connects the reference number to its footnote.

You can also use the Footnote and Endnote settings to change numbering formats and placement.

This built-in feature is generally more reliable than manually typing reference numbers. If you add or remove notes, Word can update the numbering automatically.

How to Add Footnotes in Google Docs

Google Docs also includes a simple footnote insertion feature.

Follow these steps:

1. Open your document in Google Docs.
2. Place the cursor where the reference should appear.
3. Open the Insert menu.
4. Select Page elements and then Footnote, where that menu layout is available.
5. Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut shown in your version of Google Docs.
6. Type your note in the footnote area.

Google Docs automatically inserts a corresponding superscript number.

The software also adjusts the numbering when you insert additional footnotes.

Common Footnote Symbol Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced writers sometimes make mistakes when formatting footnotes. Most problems involve inconsistent markers, incorrect placement, or missing references.

Here are common errors worth checking before publishing.

Using Inconsistent Footnote Markers

Don’t switch between asterisks, daggers, and superscript numbers without a clear reason.

Choose one system and apply it consistently throughout the document.

Confusing an Asterisk With a Dagger

The asterisk (*) and dagger (†) have different shapes and names.

Although both can identify footnotes, they aren’t interchangeable in every publication.

Always check the required reference sequence.

Choosing Symbols for Too Many Footnotes

Symbolic markers become difficult to manage when a document contains numerous notes.

For longer academic papers, numbered footnotes usually provide a clearer system.

Placing Markers Incorrectly Around Punctuation

A footnote marker should follow the applicable punctuation convention.

For example, many English-language systems place the marker after a period. However, some style guides make exceptions for dashes.

Forgetting the Corresponding Footnote

Every footnote reference should connect to an actual note.

An asterisk without an explanation leaves readers searching for information that doesn’t exist.

Reusing the Same Symbol for Unrelated Notes

Avoid assigning one symbol to multiple unrelated explanations on the same page.

Repeated markers are acceptable when one note applies to several items. However, the connection must remain clear.

Mixing Symbolic and Numerical Systems

Some publications permit both types of markers in the same document.

For example, a special asterisk might identify an editorial qualification while numbered notes provide source citations.

When using both systems, follow the publication’s rules for their order and placement.

Ignoring the Required Style Guide

Chicago, APA, MLA, and institutional editorial manuals have different requirements.

A formatting choice that works in one publication might be incorrect in another.

Check the relevant guidelines before submitting your work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Footnote Symbols

What Is the Most Common Footnote Symbol?

The asterisk (*) is one of the most recognizable footnote symbols. Writers use it to connect statements with supplementary information, explanations, and special conditions. However, academic publications frequently prefer superscript numbers.

What Are the Standard Footnote Symbols in Order?

A traditional sequence includes the asterisk (*), dagger (†), double dagger (‡), section sign (§), double vertical line (‖), and pilcrow (¶).

Some editorial systems use repeated asterisks before introducing other characters. Always follow the applicable style guide.

What Symbol Comes After an Asterisk?

The dagger (†) traditionally follows the asterisk in many symbolic footnote systems. However, some publications use double asterisks (**) instead.

What Symbol Comes After a Dagger?

The double dagger (‡) commonly follows the single dagger in traditional footnote notation. It identifies another supplementary reference when multiple notes appear together.

What Does an Asterisk Mean at the Bottom of a Page?

An asterisk at the bottom of a page usually identifies a corresponding footnote. The note provides additional information about a statement marked with the same symbol.

For example:

• This figure excludes international shipping costs.

The matching asterisk in the main text directs readers to that explanation.

Does an Asterisk Go Before or After a Period?

In many English-language editorial conventions, the asterisk goes after the period.

Example:

The company introduced its new policy in January.*

The corresponding footnote appears below the text.

Can You Use More Than One Asterisk in a Document?

Yes. Some publications use multiple asterisks to distinguish several notes.

For example:

• First footnote.

• ** Second footnote.
• *** Third footnote.

However, other systems move to dagger and double dagger symbols after the first asterisk. Follow your publication’s requirements.

What Is the Difference Between a Footnote and an Endnote?

A footnote appears at the bottom of the relevant page. An endnote appears in a separate section at the end of a chapter or document.

Both provide supplementary information and source references. Their main difference involves placement.

Are Footnote Symbols the Same in Every Style Guide?

No. Different publishers and academic style guides use different reference systems.

Chicago commonly uses numbered footnotes in its Notes and Bibliography system. APA also uses superscript numerical markers. The United Nations has additional conventions for symbolic footnotes.

How Do You Type Special Footnote Symbols?

You can insert special symbols through your computer’s character menu or word-processing software.

Common Unicode values include:

• Dagger: U+2020
• Double dagger: U+2021
• Section sign: U+00A7
• Pilcrow: U+00B6
• Double vertical line: U+2016

Microsoft Word and Google Docs also support automatic footnote insertion.

What Does the Dagger Symbol Mean in Writing?

The dagger (†) is a typographical character that can identify a footnote or reference. In some biographical publications, it also indicates a person’s death.

Its meaning depends on the publication and surrounding text.

What Is the Difference Between an Asterisk and a Footnote?

An asterisk is a typographical character. A footnote is an explanatory or reference note placed outside the main body of the text.

Writers often use an asterisk to identify a footnote, but they aren’t the same thing. Footnotes can also use numbers, letters, or other symbols.

Can Footnotes Contain More Than One Sentence?

Yes. A footnote can contain multiple sentences when the explanation requires additional context.

However, keep it focused. If the information becomes lengthy or essential to the main discussion, consider moving it into the body of the document.

Conclusion

Footnote symbols make written information easier to navigate. They connect readers with explanations, references, qualifications, and other useful details without interrupting the main discussion.

The asterisk (*) remains one of the most recognizable markers. The dagger (†) and double dagger (‡) provide additional options when multiple symbolic references are necessary. Meanwhile, the section sign (§) and pilcrow (¶) serve their own established purposes in legal writing, editing, and document formatting.

Understanding the traditional symbol sequence is useful, but remember that editorial conventions vary. Chicago, APA, MLA, and institutional publications don’t follow identical rules.

When preparing your document, choose an appropriate reference system and apply it consistently. For longer academic papers, numbered footnotes are often easier to manage.

Ultimately, good footnote formatting isn’t about using the most symbols. It’s about helping readers find the information they need quickly and clearly.

Charlotte Hayes

Hi, I’m Charlotte Hayes. I love writing about the newest English slang, pop culture phrases, and digital communication. I spend my time exploring how language evolves across social media, gaming, and everyday conversations. I enjoy sharing easy-to-understand guides that help learners keep up with modern English. My goal is to make every article useful, accurate, and enjoyable for readers around the world.

Books:

• Everyday Slang Dictionary
• Fluent Through Informal English