How to fix
Backward typing
on Windows

For some reason, whenever I attempt to type something, it types backward, i.e., from right to left. This is extremely annoying. I am not sure why this started to happen but I want to make everything normal again. Please advise.

Typing on a computer is a fundamental activity. Every day, millions enter text to search, communicate, or perform their jobs. The standard method of typing involves characters appearing sequentially from left to right. However, an issue some encounter is typing backward. This results in text appearing from right to left, a deviation from the standard left-to-right order.

Backward typing can be disorienting. Text appears in reverse, making straightforward tasks like writing emails or creating documents challenging. For those accustomed to the left-to-right convention, this can hinder productivity and cause frustration.

The occurrence of typing backward isn't arbitrary. Certain software or applications related to right-to-left languages, such as Arabic or Hebrew, may adjust the typing direction. Unintended changes in keyboard or language settings can also cause this. It's possible, too, that unintentional keystrokes can activate this mode, though that is less common.

If you've encountered the issue of typing backward, it's crucial to understand you're not alone. Many have faced this challenge and sought solutions. The root cause can vary, but often, it's a setting or application that needs adjustment or correction. Familiarizing yourself with system settings related to language and input can be beneficial.

Backward typing, while daunting initially, is a solvable problem. By identifying the cause and making the necessary adjustments, you can return to the standard typing mode. For those seeking guidance, step-by-step instructions to address this are provided below. Remember, while the experience can be jarring, solutions are at hand.

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Fix 1. Use keyboard troubleshooter

The keyboard troubleshooter is an in-built tool within Windows designed to identify and automatically fix common keyboard issues. It scans for problems related to keyboard functioning and provides recommendations.

• Type Troubleshoot in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Select Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Find Keyboard from the list and select Run the troubleshooter/Run.
• Wait till the scan is finished - you will be provided with potential causes so you can proceed with fixes.
• If no suggestions were given, proceed with the solutions below.

Fix 2. Change typing direction using keyboard shortcut

Sometimes, unintentional keystrokes can alter the typing direction. A quick keyboard shortcut can often reverse this change.

• While in a text field, press Ctrl (left) + Shift simultaneously.
• Test typing to see if the direction is corrected.
• If it doesn’t work, try the same combination while holding the right Ctrl and Shift keys.

Fix 3. Select the correct regional settings

The regional settings in Windows can impact how text is displayed and entered. If set to a right-to-left language region, it might change the typing direction.

• Type Region settings in Windows search and press Enter.
• Click on Region & language settings.
• Ensure your Country or region is correctly selected.
• Under Languages, ensure your primary language is set correctly. If not, adjust accordingly.

Fix 4. Update keyboard drivers

Drivers are software components that allow your operating system to communicate with hardware. Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause unexpected behavior.

• Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
• Expand the Keyboards section.
• Right-click on Standard PS/2 Keyboard or any similar option.
• Select Update driver.
• Choose Search automatically for drivers.
• Follow the prompts to complete the update and restart your PC.

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Fix 5. Restore Windows to a previous point

System Restore allows you to revert your computer's state to a previous point in time. This can help if recent changes have caused the issue.

• Type in Create a Restore Point in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Click System Restore.
• Pick Choose a different restore point (if available) and click Next.
• Mark the Show more restore points checkbox.
• Choose a time before issues occurred.
• Click Next and reboot the system as required.

Fix 6. Perform a Clean boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help pinpoint any conflicts causing the backward typing.

• Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
• Go to the Services tab and tick the Hide all Microsoft services checkbox.
• Select Disable all.
• Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
• Here, right-click on each of the non-Windows entries and select Disable.
• Close down the Task Manager.
• Go to the Boot tab and tick the Safe boot option.

In clean boot state:

• See if the backward typing persists.
• Gradually re-enable services in System Configuration, restarting after each change, to identify the problem source.
• Update or uninstall the problematic software or service.
• In System Configuration, select Normal startup, click OK, and restart.