I cannot type "shift" then "t" to make a capital "t".

Question

Whenever I click the keyboard doesn't type a capital "t". It only works when i turn caps lock on. Happens on any keayboard not just the laptop one. Any fix?

Answer 1

Hi!

Does this problem occur specifically with the letter T? If you hold down SHIFT and press another letter, like A, does it work?

Have you tried using the virtual keyboard? Press Windows + R > Type osk > click the SHIFT key and then T.

If it only happens with the T key, perhaps some background app is using the SHIFT + T shortcut. Start in safe mode and see if the problem persists.

1. Press the CTRL + R shortcut > Type ''msconfig'' (without quotes) > Click on the ''System Boot'' tab > Check the ''Safe Boot'' option > Click ''OK''.
2. Restart the computer.

To exit Safe Mode, access msconfig again (Step 01) > In “General”, check the “Normal Startup” option > Apply > Restart the PC.

Answer 2

The behavior most likely indicates either a stuck/dirty key or a keyboard layout/input issue rather than a hardware failure limited to one device, since it happens on multiple keyboards.

Try these steps in order:

1. Check for debris or mechanical issues
   • Focus on the Shift and T keys.
   • Use compressed air to blow under and around those keys.
   • Wipe the keys with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
   • If possible, test with an external keyboard; if the external keyboard works normally, the built‑in keyboard may have a hardware issue.
2. Verify keyboard layout and input language
   • Go to Start > Settings > Time & language > Region & language.
   • Make sure the keyboard/input language matches the display language being used.
   • If a wrong or custom layout is active, add the correct layout and remove the problematic one, then test again.
3. Test for intermittent key problems
   • If the issue appears only sometimes, it may be an intermittent hardware problem.
   • Try typing in different apps (Notepad, browser, etc.) and in Safe Mode. If the problem disappears in Safe Mode, a third‑party app or driver may be interfering.
4. Check for special keyboard settings
   • Go to Settings > Ease of Access (or Accessibility) > Keyboard.
   • Ensure features like Sticky Keys or Filter Keys are set as desired; misconfiguration can change how Shift behaves.
5. If the problem persists across all keyboards
   • This strongly suggests a software or driver issue.
   • Check for Windows updates under Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • If only one specific key combination (Shift + T) fails while others work, and cleaning plus layout checks do not help, consider that the keyboard hardware may still be at fault (especially if an external keyboard shows the same intermittent behavior), in which case replacement or professional service may be required.

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References:

• Troubleshoot problems with your Surface mouse or keyboard
• Troubleshoot Surface Pro Keyboard or Type Cover
• keypad issue - Microsoft Q&A
• shift key in Word not working - I have to press the key several times to be able to capitalize a letter. - Microsoft Q&A