Keyboard Accessibility

Although it is possible to buy keyboards of alternative shapes and sizes, access can often be improved by use of Windows' Accessibility Options and some other features that are scattered around your computer.

I get repeated keypresses

Keyboards are designed to accept short, sharp key presses. If you find that you're getting more than one letter appear in a row you may need to adjust some of Windows' keyboard settings... [more information on repeated keystrokes]

I struggle to hold down two keys at once

Many people find it difficult to hold down two or more keys at once on the keyboard. Even something like CTRL + C (copy) requires a flexible hand and excellent fine motor control. Other combinations like CTRL + ALT + DEL require a two handed approach... [more information on holding down two keys at once]

I hit other keys accidentally

If you briefly hit one key when you're intending to hit something else then you could try asking Windows be more selective in what it accepts... [more information on hitting other keys accidentally]

I'm a one-handed keyboard user

There's no doubt about it, keyboards are designed for two-handed users. Find out about specialist keyboards, software and techniques designed for one-handed typists... [more information about one-handed keyboarding]

Specialist Keyboards

If you simply can not get on with a standard keyboard then you might want to consider trying a keyboard of different shape, with larger keys, or even a membrane keyboard... [more information on specialist keyboards]

Keyguards

Keyguards make a huge difference for people who struggle to access a standard keyboard due to uncontrollable hand movement, poor targeting or muscle weakness... [more information about keyguards]

On-Screen Keyboards

If you really struggle to use a keyboard then you could try a 'virtual' on-screen keyboard. These can be operated with a mouse, rollerball, joystick, headpointer or via switch access... [more information about on-screen keyboards]

Using the keyboard to move the mouse

This is really part of the mouse section of my website. Follow the link to find out how you can move the mouse pointer using a standard keyboard... [more information about using the keyboard to move the mouse]