Adding the trademark symbol (™) or registered trademark symbol (®) to your brand's logos, products, and marketing materials is a crucial step in protecting your intellectual property. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining the differences between the symbols and how to correctly implement them.
Understanding the Trademark Symbols: ™ vs. ®
Before diving into how to add the symbols, it's crucial to understand their distinctions:
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™ (Trademark Symbol): This symbol indicates that you are claiming a trademark on a specific brand name, logo, or phrase. Using the ™ symbol doesn't provide legal protection on its own. It serves as a notice to others that you consider the mark to be a trademark and are intending to pursue registration. It's a proactive measure to deter others from using your mark.
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® (Registered Trademark Symbol): This symbol signifies that your trademark is officially registered with a government agency, such as the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) or a similar office in your country. Using the ® symbol indicates legal protection. It carries significantly more weight than the ™ symbol and can be used as evidence in legal action against infringement.
How to Add the Trademark Symbol (™)
Adding the ™ symbol is straightforward and usually involves using your computer's keyboard or character map. Here's how:
Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts (Windows)
Most Windows keyboards offer a simple shortcut. Press and hold the Alt key and type 0153 on the numeric keypad (ensure Num Lock is on). Release the Alt key, and the ™ symbol will appear.
Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts (Mac)
Mac users can use the character viewer. Press Command + Control + Spacebar to open the Character Viewer. Search for "trademark" and then select and insert the ™ symbol into your document.
Method 3: Using the Insert Symbol Feature (Word Processors)
Most word processing programs like Microsoft Word and Google Docs offer an "Insert Symbol" feature. Follow these general steps:
- Locate the "Insert" tab: This is usually in the menu bar at the top of your screen.
- Select "Symbol": Within the "Insert" tab, you should find an option to insert symbols.
- Find the Trademark symbol (™): Browse the list of symbols until you find the trademark symbol.
- Insert the symbol: Click on the symbol to insert it into your document.
How to Add the Registered Trademark Symbol (®)
You can only use the ® symbol after your trademark has been officially registered. The process of adding the ® symbol is identical to adding the ™ symbol, using the methods described above. For Windows, the Alt code is 0174. For Mac, you can find it in the Character Viewer by searching "registered trademark".
Important Considerations
- Placement: Place the trademark symbol immediately after the marked brand name, logo, or phrase, slightly elevated.
- Consistency: Use the symbol consistently across all your branding materials.
- Legal Advice: While this guide provides instructions on adding the symbols, consult a legal professional for advice on trademark registration and usage. They can help ensure you're correctly protecting your intellectual property.
This guide provides a practical approach to incorporating trademark symbols into your branding. Remember that proper use of these symbols is an essential component of protecting your brand and its identity. Following these steps can aid in establishing your brand’s presence and minimizing the risk of infringement.
