How to Change the layout of the On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11
The layout of the On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11 lets you change how it looks to better suit how you type or the device you are using.
The On-Screen Keyboard is a virtual keyboard that shows up on your screen, letting you type with a mouse, touch, or other pointing devices. Windows 11 offers several built-in layouts like standard, wide, split, and touch keyboard options.
You can find these layout choices by clicking the gear icon on the keyboard itself. Changing these layouts is useful when you don’t have a physical keyboard or have special typing needs, like choosing a split layout for easier typing on a touch screen.
Click the “General” or “Nav” key directly on the On-Screen Keyboard to switch between layouts. The OSK remembers your last selection, offering a full keyboard or a simplified navigation view.
Understanding the OSK Layout Options
The On-Screen Keyboard offers two main layouts: “General” and “Nav.”
The General Layout
The on-screen keyboard layout functions like a physical keyboard. It displays common keys for letters, numbers, and symbols. This design supports typing emails, documents, and other content with numerous characters.
The Nav Layout
The Navigation (Nav) keyboard layout offers a simplified design with essential keys such as Tab, Enter, Spacebar, and arrow keys. This layout proves beneficial for users who primarily employ the On-Screen Keyboard (OSK) for navigating Windows or selecting options, potentially increasing interaction speed.
Switching Between Layouts
Switching between the General and Nav modes of the Windows 11 on-screen keyboard is simple to do right on the keyboard itself. Look for the key labeled ‘Nav’ or ‘General’ on the on-screen keyboard. Clicking this key will swap the layout to the other mode.
- Find the Layout Key: Look at your On-Screen Keyboard. You will see a key that says either “Nav” or “General.” This is your switch!
- Click to Switch: If your keyboard is in the General layout, clicking the “Nav” key will change it to the Nav layout. If you are in the Nav layout, clicking the “General” key will bring back the full keyboard.
Summary
The Windows 11 on-screen keyboard offers several layout options to make typing more comfortable and efficient.
How do I bring up the onscreen keyboard on 🪟 Windows 11?
To open the On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11, go to Settings, then Accessibility, and select Keyboard. Toggle the ‘On-Screen Keyboard’ switch to ‘On’. The virtual keyboard will then show up on your screen, ready to go.
How to change on-screen keyboard layout in 🪟 Windows 11?
To change the On-Screen Keyboard layout in Windows 11, open the OSK, then click the settings icon (gear). From the available options, select your preferred layout such as standard, wide, split, or touch keyboard to customize your typing experience.
How do I change 🪟 Windows 11 back to classic view?
Windows 11 does not have a direct ‘classic view’ setting for the entire operating system. However, you can revert some visual elements like the Start menu and taskbar to a more traditional layout through Personalization settings under Taskbar behavior.
How to permanently turn on on-screen keyboard?
To have the On-Screen Keyboard automatically turn on when Windows 11 starts, you’ll need to use Task Scheduler (a built-in tool for managing automated tasks). Create a new task that triggers on system startup and runs the OSK application (osk.exe).
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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