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Fix: Shift Key not Working on Windows 10 [Right Side]
First, check if the switch of the Shift key is working properly
6 min. read
Updated onMay 16, 2024
updated onMay 16, 2024
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Key notes
TheShiftkey is a modifier key on your computer’s keyboard or laptop, whose primary function is capitalizing lowercase letters, besides adding symbols.
Many reported issues with this key, and you’ll be surprised how many problems can appear if one of your keys suddenly stops working.
So, let’s move on to more technical solutions, and see how to fix this issue once and for all on your Windows 10 or 11 PC.
Why is my Shift key not working on Windows 10?
Usually, when a key isn’t working, the problem is related to a hardware issue. So be sure to check if no dust or debris is blocking the key.
If that’s not the issue, it’s possible that software is interfering with it, or you might even have a driver problem.
Why is my PC beeping when I press the Shift key?
This is likely due to theSticky keysfeature. This is an accessibility feature, and to enable it, you need to press theShiftkey a couple of times.
When you do that, a beeping sound will play signaling that you’ve enabledSticky keys. This can be annoying, but you can disable it from theSettingsapp.
How can I fix Shift key if it won’t work on Windows 10?
1. Uninstall and reinstall the keyboard driver
If this process seems complicated, you can simply use aspecialized driver update toolto quickly update all drivers automatically on your PC.
2. Try a different or external keyboard
You can connect a different keyboard to your laptop and check if it fixes theShiftkey not working problem.
If you need a good keyboard,visit our guide on the best spill-resistant keyboardsto find the right model for you.
3. Check keyboard language settings
4. Check Filter/Sticky Keys
For more information, we suggest checking our guide onhow to turn off Sticky Keys in Windows 10.
5. Run the built-in troubleshooter
6. Perform a System Restore
Want to learn more about this feature? Be sure tocheck our guide on how to create a System Restore point.
7. Boot in Safe Mode
If the issue isn’t there while in Safe Mode, then your default settings and basic drivers are certainly not the cause of the issue.
8. Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot reduces conflicts related to software that can bring up the root causes of theShiftkey not working.
If this fixes the issue, enable services and apps one by one until you find the source of the problem.
How do you unlock Shift key?
What can I do if the Left Shift key isn’t working on Windows 11?
Any keyboard-related software can cause problems, so be sure to remove it. If that doesn’t work, you can try solutions from the Windows 10 section, since they are fully compatible with the latest version as well.
Where is the Shift key used?
Usually, this key is used to make the text uppercase when typing, or to add symbols, but it’s also used in many applications, most notably video games.
There are also many keyboard shortcuts in Windows and third-party apps that use theShiftkey.
Can I use my PC without the Shift key?
Yes, you can use your PC even if theShiftkey isn’t working. However, you need to keep in mind that your typing speed might be affected.
Also, you won’t be able to use certain keyboard shortcuts. But if you just want to browse the web, you can do it without having to ever use this key.
Issues with theShiftkey usually aren’t too serious, and they can be fixed by updating drivers and making sure that your keyboard doesn’t have any hardware issues.
If the problems are still there, you might want totake a look at ourLeft Shiftkey won’t work guidefor more useful solutions.
Other keys can be affected by this issue too, and we already covered theCtrl key not workingissue in a separate guide, so you might want to check it out.
Did any of these solutions help you fix theShiftkey not working issue? Let us know in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Keyboard issues
Milan Stanojevic
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He’s a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology.
Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.
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Milan Stanojevic
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s specialized in Windows errors & software issues.
Reviewed byVlad Turiceanu
Coming from a solid background in PC building and software development, he’s a Windows 11 Privacy & Security expert.More about Vlad ›