How to Override Default Input Method in Windows 11

This article explains how to override the default input method in Windows 11.

Windows allows you to install a preferred language for features like Settings and File Explorer.

The default keyboard layout will also be installed when you install a preferred language. Windows also allows users to install an input language keyboard to set a language preference order for websites and apps, and change their keyboard language.

When you have multiple languages and keyboard layouts in Windows, a default input method will always be used when switching between languages and keyboard layouts.

Windows will allow you to change your keyboard layout to type in another language or input method you want to use. In addition, if you want to use an input method different than the display language you’re using, you can set a default input method override so that the default method will always be used.

How to set the default input method override in Windows 11

As mentioned above, when you have multiple languages and keyboard layouts in Windows, a default input method will always be used when switching between languages and keyboard layouts.

This will only work if you have multiple preferred languages and keyboard layouts. If you haven’t installed additional languages and keyboard layouts, use the posts below to learn how.

• How to add a language in Windows 11
• How to add an input language keyboard in Windows 11
• How to change display language in Windows 11

Below is how one can change the default input method by overriding its settings in Windows 11.

When you have multiple preferred languages installed, you should have a similar screen in Settings > Time & language > Preferred languages

When you go into the language option for each preferred language, you should be able to add an input keyboard layout.

Go to the Start menu > Settings > Time & language > Typing to change the default override method.

Select and click the Advanced keyboard settings tile on the Typing settings pane.

Choose the override for the default input method on the Advanced Keyboard settings pane. Windows will pick the default input language keyboard as the recommended default.

You can now close the Settings app.

Conclusion:

• Setting a default input method override in Windows 11 ensures a smoother typing experience across multiple languages.
• Customizing your input settings allows you to easily switch between languages without disrupting your workflow.
• This feature especially benefits users who frequently communicate in different languages or use various keyboard layouts.
• Remember to explore additional language and keyboard layout options to enhance your productivity.
• Refer to the linked posts to install or manage languages and inputs for further assistance.