How to Use the Keypad on a Laptop
Speeding up your data entry is made simple by using the built-in numeric keypad on your laptop. Not every laptop features this keypad the same way, so you may need to do some trial and error to locate the correct key combination. A numeric keypad allows for one-handed entry of numbers, leaving your other hand to sort through papers or locate data as necessary.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Start the application you need to use with the numeric keypad, such as a spreadsheet or database program.
-
2
Review your laptop's keyboard to locate a key that says "NumLock," "NumLk," "#Lk" or simply "Num." Some laptops may have simply a symbol designating "Number Lock." Press that button.
-
-
3
Look at your laptop as you push the button. Typically, a light will come on as you push the button. This light designates to you that you have entered the "Number Lock" mode, and not all of the alphabetical keys will continue to work now.
-
4
Locate the alphabetical keys on your keyboard that also have numbers printed on them. The numbers should be in an array with the 1, 2, and 3 next to each other, and the 4, 5, and 6 above the 1, 2, and 3.
-
5
Press the numeric keypad keys to see if the numbers are working. Instead of letters appearing on the screen, you should see the numbers instead.
-
6
Locate the "Function" key on your keyboard if the numeric keypad numbers are not working. Hold down the function key and press the "NumLock" key, then test the keypad again. If it still is not working, hold down "Shift" and push the "NumLock" key and test. If it is still not working, hold down the "Ctrl" key and push the "NumLock" key and test. If the keypad is still not working, contact your computer manufacturer to inquire about the proper key combination.
-
7
Press the "NumLock" key again (holding down the "Function," "Shift" or "Ctrl" keys if necessary) to turn off the "Number Lock" function. Your alphabetical keys should work properly now and the "NumLock" light should go out.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You can also purchase an external numeric keypad if you spend a significant amount of time entering numbers. This will plug in to your USB port.
The laptop keypad has a slightly different feel to it than a standard keypad, as the keys are arranged diagonally. Keep an eye on your data to make sure you aren't making errors as you type.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
