Lorene Melone
How to Fix Keyboard Shortcuts Opening Instead of Typing in Windows
If you’ve encountered the frustrating issue where your keyboard opens random applications or shortcuts instead of typing letters, you’re not alone. This common problem can disrupt your workflow and productivity. Fortunately, resolving this issue is straightforward, and in this guide, I will walk you through several effective methods to restore normal keyboard functionality on your Windows device. By following these steps, you’ll be able to regain control over your keyboard and eliminate interruptions caused by unintended shortcuts.
Before we begin, ensure your Windows operating system is updated. This guide applies to both Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems. No additional software or downloads are required, just your keyboard and a bit of troubleshooting effort.
Step 1: Disable Sticky Keys and Filter Keys
Sticky Keys and Filter Keys are accessibility features that can sometimes cause your keyboard to behave unexpectedly. To check if these features are causing the issue:
- Open the Settings menu by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to Ease of Access (or Accessibility in Windows 11).
- On the left-hand side, click on Keyboard.
- Locate the options for Sticky Keys and Filter Keys.
- Turn off both features by toggling the switches to the Off position.
After disabling these features, test your keyboard to see if the issue persists.
Step 2: Disable Windows Ink Workspace
Sometimes, the Windows Ink Workspace feature can interfere with keyboard input. To disable it, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
regeditand hit Enter to open the Registry Editor. - Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > Software > Microsoft > Windows Ink Workspace.
- If the Windows Ink Workspace key does not exist, right-click on Microsoft, select New, then Key, and name it Windows Ink Workspace.
- Inside the Windows Ink Workspace key, right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it AllowWindowsInkWorkspace.
- Double-click on the newly created value and set its data to
0.
Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer to apply the changes.
Step 3: Run the Keyboard Troubleshooter
The built-in keyboard troubleshooter can help identify and resolve issues automatically. To run the troubleshooter:
- Open the Settings menu again by pressing Windows + I.
- Click on Update & Security.
- Select Troubleshoot from the left pane.
- Under Additional troubleshooters, find and click on Keyboard.
- Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the prompts.
The troubleshooter will attempt to detect and fix any keyboard-related issues automatically.
Step 4: Reinstall the Keyboard Driver
If the previous methods did not resolve the issue, reinstalling the keyboard driver may help. Here’s how to do it:
- Right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Keyboards section.
- Right-click on your keyboard device and select Uninstall device.
- Restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the keyboard driver.
After the restart, check if the keyboard is functioning correctly.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
In addition to the methods above, consider the following tips:
- Ensure your keyboard is clean and free from debris that could cause key sticking.
- If using a laptop, check if the keyboard is functioning in BIOS mode to rule out software issues.
- For external keyboards, try connecting it to a different USB port or using a different keyboard entirely.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of your keyboard opening shortcuts instead of typing letters. Remember to check your settings regularly and keep your system updated to prevent similar issues in the future. If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to explore more troubleshooting guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my keyboard open random applications?
This issue may occur due to accessibility features like Sticky Keys or Filter Keys being enabled, or due to conflicts with the Windows Ink Workspace. Disabling these features usually resolves the problem.
What if disabling Sticky Keys didn’t work?
If disabling Sticky Keys and Filter Keys doesn’t help, consider running the keyboard troubleshooter or reinstalling the keyboard driver, as these methods can address underlying issues.
Can I prevent this issue in the future?
Regularly check your keyboard settings and ensure you’re not inadvertently enabling accessibility features. Keeping your system updated is also crucial for maintaining optimal performance.