How to Add Languages on a Computer

If you want to experiment with or write in a different language than the one that comes standard on your computer, Windows XP has a feature that lets you do just that. You may even change the reading order from left-to-right to right-to-left as some languages such as Arabic and Hebrew require. Here's how to add a different language to a system that is running Windows XP.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Click your computer's "Start" button and then navigate to the "Control Panel" menu. For people who still have the "Classic Start" menu, you will need to follow this progression: "Start," "Settings" and then "Control Panel."

2. Choose "Date, Time, Language, and Regional Options." For the Classic Start menu, you will double-click "Regional and Language Options" instead.

3. Select the "Languages" tab and then click "Add." Select the language of your choice from the drop-down list.

4. Identify the correct keyword layout for your computer by choose between QWERTY and DVORAK if you are prompted to choose a keyboard layout. Click "OK." You are now all set to use a different language in your PC.

5. Press "Alt + Shift" when you want to switch between languages.

Tips & Warnings

• MS Word has the capability to automatically change its settings according to the language you use. However, ensure that you add a right-to-left button to the top bar in Microsoft Word if you are using right-to-left language such as Hebrew.
• Ensure that you are in the right language before you start typing again.