How to Change the Keyboard Layout in Windows 11

Changing the keyboard layout in Windows 11 allows you to use different languages and input methods, making it easier to type in multiple languages or access special characters. This guide will walk you through the steps to change and manage keyboard layouts in Windows 11.

Introduction

Windows 11 supports a wide variety of keyboard layouts and input methods for different languages. Whether you need to switch to a different language, use a specific keyboard layout, or add additional input methods, Windows 11 makes it easy to customize your keyboard settings. Follow this guide to learn how to change the keyboard layout in Windows 11.

Step 1: Open Settings

  1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
  2. Click on the Settings icon (gear icon). Alternatively, press Win + I to open the Settings app directly.

Step 2: Navigate to Time & Language

  1. In the Settings app, click on Time & language in the left-hand sidebar.

Step 3: Access Language & Region Settings

  1. In the Time & language settings, click on Language & region.

Step 4: Add a Language

  1. In the Language & region settings, click on the Add a language button under the Preferred languages section.

  2. A list of available languages will appear. Type the name of the language you want to add in the search bar or scroll through the list to find it.

  3. Select the language you want to add and click Next.

  4. Select the optional language features you want to install (e.g., language pack, speech recognition, handwriting).

  5. Click Install to add the new language.

Step 5: Change the Keyboard Layout

  1. After adding the new language, click on the language in the Preferred languages list.

  2. Click on the Options button.

  3. In the Keyboards section, you will see the default keyboard layout for the selected language. To add a new keyboard layout, click on Add a keyboard.

  4. Select the keyboard layout you want to add from the list. The new keyboard layout will appear in the Keyboards section.

Step 6: Switch Between Keyboard Layouts

  1. To switch between keyboard layouts, click on the input indicator icon (language abbreviation) in the taskbar near the system tray. If the input indicator icon is not visible, you can enable it by going to Settings > Time & language > Typing > Advanced keyboard settings and turning on Show the input indicator.

  2. A list of installed keyboard layouts and languages will appear. Click on the keyboard layout you want to switch to.

  3. Alternatively, you can switch between keyboard layouts using the keyboard shortcut: Win + Space or Alt + Shift.

Step 7: Remove a Keyboard Layout

  1. To remove a keyboard layout, go to Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
  2. Click on the language in the Preferred languages list.
  3. Click on the Options button.
  4. In the Keyboards section, click on the Remove button next to the keyboard layout you want to remove.

Additional Tips

  • Set Default Keyboard Layout: To set a default keyboard layout, go to Settings > Time & language > Language & region, select the language, click on Options, and then ensure the desired keyboard layout is the first in the list.
  • Language Preferences: You can change the order of preferred languages by dragging them in the Preferred languages list. This can affect the default input method and language used in apps.
  • Advanced Keyboard Settings: Access additional keyboard settings by going to Settings > Time & language > Typing > Advanced keyboard settings.

Conclusion

You have successfully learned how to change the keyboard layout in Windows 11. By following these steps, you can easily switch between different languages and input methods, enhancing your typing experience and productivity. Experiment with different layouts to find the ones that best suit your needs and preferences.


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