Sticky Keys

By Xah Lee. Date: . Last updated: .

What is Sticky Keys

Sticky Key is a keyboard feature in {Windows, Mac, Linux}.

It lets you press key combination by pressing each key in sequence. For example, to press Ctrl+c, you press Ctrl, release it, then press c.

This works for any of Shift Ctrl Alt ⌥ option ⌘ command

Sticky Key is an excellent feature if you have hand pain from Repetitive Strain Injury of typing key combo too much.

Turn on Sticky Keys in Microsoft Windows

On Windows 10, press ❖ Window, then type “stickykey” to launch the settings.

Windows 10 sticky keys 2021-06-03
Windows 10 sticky keys 2021-06-03

Alternatively, go to Control Panel, “Ease of Access Center”, then the Keyboard section. Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Ease of Access Center\Set up Sticky Keys

Windows 10 sticky keys 2021-06-03 7
Windows 10 sticky keys 2021-06-03

Once its on, you have this key indicator in the taskbar. it shows which modifier keys are currently “stuck”.

Windows 10 sticky keys indicator 2022-08-17 gKRyX
Windows 10 sticky keys indicator (left most icon) 2022-08-17

Turn on Sticky Keys in MacOS

On Mac, go to menu [System Preferences ▸ Universal Access ▸ Keyboard tab].

macOS sticky key 2019-08-13 ztdhw
macOS sticky key 2019-08-13

Turn on Sticky Key in Linux

For Linux, it's usually under the system preference settings, Accessibility section or Keyboard section.

linux xfce sticky key
Linux xfce sticky key

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