Windows 10 gives you the option to set up multiple keyboard layouts during the first-time setup wizard. However, you can also modify it later if you didn’t choose the proper option the first time or need to type in a different language.
Most users don’t require to change their keyboard input, but it isn’t uncommon either. For instance, specials characters like “Ä” or “Ñ” are available only on specific layouts. Also, you may need to switch between QWERTY and DVORAK layout variants.
Whatever your reasoning is for changing the keyboard layout, Windows 10 allows you to add, remove, and modify layouts for both physical and on-screen touch keyboards. This guide will show you the process to change your keyboard layout on your PC or laptop.
Adding keyboard layouts on Windows 10
Windows 10 has made a lot of things user-friendly, and adding a keyboard layout is as simple as it gets. Here’s what you need to do:
- Right-click the Start menu icon and select Settings in the contextual menu.
- Next, click Time & Language on the main Settings screen, then select the Language option in the left sidebar.
- After that, select your default language under the “Preferred languages” section, and then click the Options button.
- Now click Add a keyboard under the “Keyboards” section. A list of keyboard layouts should pop up above.
- Finally, choose your preferred keyboard layout you wish to add.
You can now repeat the last two steps to add more layouts. Check out the next section below to learn how you can switch between them.
Switching keyboard layouts on Windows 10
It’s pretty easy to change the keyboard layouts. But, do note that it will change functions for some of the keyboard keys, meaning that they will input different characters based on what you have selected.
To switch between keyboard layouts on Windows 10, all you have to do is click the Input Indicator icon on the right corner of the taskbar, then choose the layout you added before. From the same menu, you can revert to the default layout.
Just in case you don’t see the Input Indicator icon in the taskbar, follow the steps below.
- Head over to the Settings app from the Start menu and click the Personalization option.
- Next, select Taskbar at the bottom of the left sidebar, then click Turn system icons on or off under the “Notification area” section.
- From the following page, toggle the switch on for Input Indicator.
Assuming you do it correctly, the icon should show up in the notification area of the taskbar. It’s worth mentioning that you can press the Windows key + Spacebar on your keyboard to switch between the keyboard layouts quickly.
Removing keyboard layouts on Windows 10
If you want to remove a keyboard layout, return to the Time & Language > Language menu in the Settings app and select your default language right below the “Preferred languages” row. After that, click the Options button.
Now you should be able to choose the layout from the list under the “Keyboards” section and delete it by clicking the Remove button. Repeat the steps for the other keyboard layout you wish to remove.
Talha Ali is your tech generalist, covering a wide spectrum of topics within the ever-evolving world of technology. With a curiosity for the latest innovations, industry trends, and breakthroughs. Whether it’s hardware, software, emerging technologies, or the intersection of tech with daily life, Talha’s articles provide readers with a well-rounded perspective on the dynamic landscape of the tech industry.