Shift key not working correctly: on Windows or Mac
The Shift key is an important part of various shortcut action commands and it is crucial that it works properly. This article will explain to you how to fix issues with the Shift key on both Windows and Mac computers.
How to fix Shift key issue
-
By holding Shift and ALT down
The first simple solution is to hold down both Shift keys and the ALT button at the same time. This is the equivalent of switching back and forth between European and American keyboards. If this doesn’t work for you, then you should check the other solutions we found.
A variation of this is required if you find that your shift key is typing the wrong sign. For example, you are trying to type the @ symbol, and seeing something else. Press the Left ALT key and Shift simultaneously.
- By holding both Shift keys
If the problem persists, try holding down both Shift keys for a few seconds. The problem is still there? Don’t worry, we have your back with other options.
-
By pressing both Shift keys alternately
Another solution is to press the two Shift keys alternately. Repeat that for about a minute.
- By holding both Shift keys and CTRL
If nothing of the above fixes your problem, try holding both Shift keys and the CTRL key at once.
- By holding ALT and Shift
If the problem still isn’t fixed, you can try holding the left ALT and Shift keys for 10 seconds.
-
By FN and Num Lock
The last keyboard solution is to press the fn key and the Num Lock key simultaneously.
Are there any settings solutions?
If the different combinations of keys didn’t fix the problem, you should consider the following: first, go to the “Control panel”. Then in the “Keyboard tab” click on “Accessibility Options.” Then click on the settings buttons for Sticky keys, Filter keys and Toggle keys and deselect the option to use a shortcut. Pressing five times the Shift key will turn off the Sticky Keys (or will turn them on, if they are already off).
We hope that you find these solutions useful and that your problem is now fixed!