Keyboard Typing in ALL CAPS? Here’s How to Fix It (Caps Lock Off)

If you find your keyboard suddenly typing in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS even though the Caps Lock light is off, you're not alone. This is a common and frustrating issue, but it's almost always solvable.

The short answer: The problem is usually caused by a stuck Shift key, an accidental keyboard shortcut, a setting in your operating system's accessibility features, or a software glitch.

Below, we’ll walk you through a complete, step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide. We’ll cover everything from quick 10-second fixes to more advanced solutions for persistent problems.

Why Is This Happening? The Core Reasons

Your computer interprets multiple signals to decide whether a letter should be uppercase or lowercase. When Caps Lock is off but you're still getting capitals, it means the system is receiving a persistent "shift" signal from somewhere else. Here are the most likely culprits:

The Stuck or Ghosting Shift Key

This is the most common cause. A tiny piece of debris under a Shift key, or a worn-out keyboard switch, can make your computer think the Shift key is permanently held down. The key might feel physically fine to you, but the electrical contact is stuck.

Accessibility Features (Sticky Keys)

Operating systems have features to help users with difficulties holding multiple keys. Sticky Keys in Windows or macOS allows you to press one key at a time for shortcuts (like pressing Shift, then another key). If activated accidentally (by pressing Shift 5 times), it can cause unexpected capitalization behavior.

Software or Driver Glitch

A temporary bug in your keyboard driver, your active application (like Word, Chrome, or a game), or even the operating system itself can cause this state to get "stuck."

Input Method or Language Settings

Certain keyboard layouts or input methods (especially those for different languages) can have built-in capitalization rules that might seem buggy.

Hardware Failure or Connection Issue

For external keyboards, a faulty USB port, a damaged cable, or internal keyboard circuitry problems can send incorrect signals.

The Step-by-Step Fix Guide

Follow these steps in order, starting with the simplest solutions.

Step 1: The Immediate Checks

• Test the Shift Keys: In a text field, press the Left Shift key and type 'a'. It should produce a lowercase 'a'. Now press the Right Shift key and type 'a'. If either one produces an uppercase 'A', that specific Shift key is likely stuck in software. Press the problematic Shift key firmly 5-10 times to try and free the contact.
• Toggle Caps Lock: Even if the light isn't on, press the Caps Lock key once, wait a second, and press it again. This resets the software state.
• Try a Different Program: Open a basic text editor like our word counter, Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (macOS). Does the problem happen there too? If it's only in one program (like a browser or Word), the issue is isolated to that application's settings.

Step 2: Check for Software Triggers

If you are using Windows, try to disable Sticky Keys like this: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard. Turn off Sticky Keys and Filter Keys.

If you are using macOS, try to disable Sticky Keys like this: Go to System Preferences > Accessibility > Keyboard. Uncheck Enable Sticky Keys.

You can also check Input Methods. Switch your keyboard layout back to the standard (e.g., "US English") and close any specialty input software.

Step 3: Isolate the Problem

Use the On-Screen Keyboard

This is a crucial diagnostic tool.

• Windows: Press Win + Ctrl + O or search keyboard on the Windows search bar to open it. Look at the Shift keys. Are they highlighted? Type using your mouse on the on-screen keyboard. If it types normally, the problem is almost certainly with your physical keyboard or its connection.
• macOS: Open System Preferences > Keyboard and check "Show keyboard and emoji viewers in menu bar." Use the viewer to see if the software registers a Shift press.

Try a Different Keyboard

If you have a spare USB keyboard, plug it in. If the problem disappears, your original keyboard has a hardware fault.

Step 4: Advanced Software Fixes

• Restart Your Computer: A classic for a reason. It clears temporary glitches in drivers and memory.
• Update Keyboard Drivers (Windows): Open Device Manager, find "Keyboards," right-click your keyboard, and select "Update driver."
• Check for App-Specific Settings: In programs like Microsoft Word, go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options and review the "AutoCorrect" and "AutoFormat As You Type" tabs for unusual capitalization rules.

By methodically following these steps, you will identify and fix the all-caps mystery in nearly every case. Remember, start simple—most often, it's a quick toggle or a stuck key away from being solved.