What the Num Lock key does
Num Lock switches the numeric keypad between typing numbers (on) and acting as arrow and navigation keys (off). It must be on for Windows Alt codes to work.
On a Mac
No Num Lock; the numpad on a full-size Apple keyboard always types numbers.
On a laptop
The most common cause of "my laptop types numbers instead of letters" is Num Lock switched on with the hidden numpad overlay. Press Fn+NumLk (or Fn+F11 on many models) to turn it off.
Shortcuts that use the Num Lock key
| Shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|
| Num Lock | Toggle the numpad between numbers and navigation |
| Fn+NumLk / Fn+F11 | Toggle on laptops |
| Alt+code with Num Lock on | Enter Alt codes |
| Shift+numpad key | Temporarily flip Num Lock for one key |
If the Num Lock key is missing or not working
Letters typing numbers: turn Num Lock off with Fn plus the key printed NumLk. Alt codes failing: turn Num Lock on. If the indicator light never changes, test the key below.
Test it here: click the tester, press the key, and it should light up green. A red key is stuck; a key that never lights up is dead or intercepted by the system. The full keyboard tester has the press log and more detail.
Click the tester, then press any key. Browser shortcuts are blocked while it has focus.
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- key
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- code
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- keyCode
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none
Max at once: 0 (rollover)
None detected. A key held for more than 2 seconds is flagged.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my keyboard typing numbers instead of letters? +
Num Lock is on and your laptop has a numpad overlay on the U, I, O, J, K, L and M keys. Press Fn+NumLk (sometimes Fn+F11 or Fn+Insert) to turn it off.
Where is Num Lock on a laptop without a numpad? +
Printed as NumLk on a function key, Insert or Scroll Lock, activated with Fn. Some laptops have no Num Lock at all.
Do Alt codes need Num Lock? +
Yes. Alt codes are typed on the numeric keypad and only work with Num Lock on.
Is there Num Lock on a Mac? +
No. The numpad on Apple's full-size keyboard always types numbers, and the Clear key sits where Num Lock would be.