i cant use certain keyboard for typing, but instead i can only do command such as alt+tab

Dear Athar A

Thanks for posting questions on Microsoft Q&A Forum. 

From what you've described, it sounds like your keyboard is registering certain keys (like 'q') inconsistently, possibly due to a temporary input recognition hiccup, and some keys are triggering shortcuts instead of letters.

To give you the most spot-on advice, could you confirm

• your exact Windows version (10 or 11—check by pressing Windows key + R, type "winver," and hit Enter)?
• the keyboard model (laptop built-in or external?)
• if this started after any recent update or app install? Also, does it happen in all apps, like Notepad?

In the meantime, please consider trying my suggestions and let me know anything new from it:
Quick test:

• Press Windows key + R, type "osk," and hit Enter > Test typing 'q' and other keys here—if it works with the mouse but not your physical keyboard, it's likely a driver sync.

Option 1:

• Press and release the Ctrl key on both the left and right sides of your keyboard.
• Press and release the Shift key on both the left and right sides of your keyboard.
• Press and release the Alt key on both the left and right sides of your keyboard.
• Press and release the Windows Key on your keyboard.
• Test typing again. Often, this action clears the software state of a "stuck" modifier key

Option 2:

• Go to Settings (Win + I) > Navigate to Accessibility (or Ease of Access in Win 10) > Select Keyboard > Ensure that Sticky Keys and Filter Keys are both set to Off.
• Go to Settings (Windows key + I) > Time & language > Language > Preferred languages > Ensure only your desired language (e.g., English US) is at the top—move it up if needed > Under "Keyboards," remove any extras and add your preferred one if missing.
• Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Keyboard > Run.
• Right-click Start > Device Manager > Keyboards > Right-click your keyboard > Update driver > Search automatically.

Note: If using a laptop, try an external USB keyboard to test— if it works fine, it could point to a hardware check. Avoid registry edits for now; these steps are low-risk and official. Restart after trying, and let me know how it goes!

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