What symbol can be created by typing two hyphens?

When two hyphens are typed in succession, they typically create a dash, specifically an en dash or sometimes a hyphen-minus, depending on the context and the software being used. In many word processors and text editors, typing two hyphens will automatically convert those characters into a proper dash symbol, which is longer than a hyphen and serves different purposes in writing, such as indicating a range of values or providing a pause in a sentence.

The dash provides a visual break in the text and can often replace parentheses or colons, making it a versatile punctuation mark. Understanding this function of the dash is critical for effective writing and editing. When trained in typing and keyboarding, recognizing how symbols are created and formatted enhances one's ability to produce polished written works.