How to Turn off Sticky Keys on Windows

This article explains how to disable Sticky Keys on Windows. Instructions apply to Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.

How to Turn off Sticky Keys in Windows 10

The simplest way to turn sticky keys on and off in Windows 10 is the following technique. Tap Shift five times with sticky keys turned on to shut it off. You can also press any two keys simultaneouslyto turn off Sticky Keys.

If the above doesn't work, or you want to turn off this shortcut in Settings, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key or select the Windows icon in the lower left-hand corner and select Settings.

2. Select Ease of Access > Keyboard

   You can also reach this menu by pressing Win+U.

3. Scroll down and select the Sticky Keys toggle to set it to off. You can also disable the shortcut here.

4. Scroll down to Make It Easier To Type. Verify that both the warning message and make-a-sound options are enabled, so you won't turn sticky keys on by accident.

How to Turn off Sticky Keys on Windows 7 and 8

Windows 7 and 8 also uses the "press Shift five times" shortcut to enable and disable Sticky Keys. Pressing two keys at the same time will also disable it. To disable or enable it in the Settings:

1. Open the Control Panel.

2. Select Ease of Access > Make the Keyboard Easier To Use

   In Windows 8, you can also do Win+U if your keyboard has a Windows key.

3. Scroll down to Make it Easier To Type and check or uncheck Turn on Sticky Keys. Then select Apply.

What Are Sticky Keys?

Every keyboard uses modifier keys, which change the function of a letter key. The one you probably use most often is Shift, which changes lowercase letters to uppercase and use the "top row" characters on most keys, like the exclamation point (!) over the 1 key.

Sticky keys assist people with disabilities or who suffer from repetitive stress injuries. Instead of holding down a button, you can tap it and it will stay “down” until you press another key. In Windows 7, 8, or 10, try this feature by pressing the Shift key five times. A box pops up asking you if you want to enable sticky keys. Afterward, try typing something, and you'll see it in action.

Sticky keys can be useful if you don't like holding down a key for long periods of time. If you're not a touch-typist, in particular, or if you're learning how to use software that makes heavy use of modifier keys, it can be useful while you track down which key you want to press. Otherwise, they're probably not worth leaving on.