How to Enable or Disable Display Additional Keys Pressed when using Pen in Windows 11
Windows 11 lets you show onscreen feedback whenever you press keyboard shortcuts while using a stylus. Connecting a digital pen via Bluetooth unlocks several customization options.
Go to Settings Bluetooth & devices Pen & Windows Ink Expand Additional pen settings and check or uncheck the box for “Display additional keys pressed when using my pen” to enable or disable it.
Why would you want this?
Displaying modifier keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, and Win) underneath the cursor provides instant visual confirmation whenever those keys are held down.
What happens when you enable this?
This setting shows your active shortcuts immediately. Keeping track of complex keystrokes becomes much simpler during detailed drawing or writing sessions.
Option 1Use Settings
- Open Settings by pressing Win+I on your keyboard.
- Click or tap Bluetooth & devices on the left side. Then click or tap Pen & Windows Ink on the right side. Open Pen & Windows Ink settings
- Click or tap Additional pen settings to expand it.
- Check the box to enable or uncheck the box to disable Display additional keys pressed when using my pen. By default, this is unchecked (disabled).
- You can now close Settings.
Option 2Use Registry
Open Windows Terminal and execute the commands below.
Enable Display Additional Keys Pressed when using Pen
reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows\Pen" /v PenKeySuppress /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
Disable Display Additional Keys Pressed when using Pen
This restores the factory default configuration.
reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows\Pen" /v PenKeySuppress /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f
Summary
Controlling pen feedback takes seconds through the Settings app or the Windows Registry. Modifier keys remain hidden by default. Toggling this behavior on ensures every keystroke registers visibly beneath the cursor.
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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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