The character that the computer will display when you hit a certain key on your keyboard is determined by the keyboard layout. There are distinct characters for different languages, but Windows makes it simple to switch between them by pressing Control + Shift or Alt + Shift. That is fantastic because it eliminates the need for a second computer or keyboard.
However, adopting two or more layouts will undoubtedly provide some challenges. For instance, if you accidentally type blindly and then realize the result is in the incorrect layout, you’ll need to start over.
It became a huge problem, especially, when layouts looks like the same and it is hard to determine from the first look that you are using the wrong layout.
Utilizing more than two layouts is a different issue. Press Control + Shift twice to choose the required layout from this point on. And this might be a major issue because you’ll always need to check what layout you’re using right now and you’ll waste time on technical issues at work.
There are a few potential solutions to this issue. While you can temporarily deactivate some layouts using the Windows keyboard layout options, doing so will require you to enter the settings dialog, make the necessary changes, and then shut the dialog each time you need a layout.
Additionally, there are a variety of programs that deal with keyboard layout issues. For instance, certain software solutions may adjust your layout automatically if you are typing in the wrong language and change the text that you have previously entered into the proper layout. However, such solutions won’t solve the issue of moving between three or more layouts, especially if the layouts are visually similar.
Specifying a unique switch shortcut key for switching between layouts is one option that might be used to address this issue. You may designate one short key to switch between English and German and another short key to switch between German and French, for example, if you are using English, German, and French. By doing this, you can be certain that you are always using the right layout. However, switching between layouts will be far more difficult. Windows does, however, offer this option, so give it a shot.
Another issue you can run into while learning a new keyboard layout is that you might not know which keys to press to retrieve the characters you need. This problem also has a nice solution. You may see all the characters that are accessible on the current keyboard layout by running Windows Screen Keyboard.
Using different keyboard layouts is a great way to save time and type in a variety of languages, but to be professional about keyboard layouts, don’t waste time typing the same thing twice or switching between layouts. Instead, learn this aspect carefully and use the short keys that Windows suggests.
Finally, if you are a system administrator and many users are reluctant to change layouts, educate them and employ freeware and paid software tools that may be able to solve the layout issue.