How to Fix a Mac Keyboard Typing in All Caps

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

It can become incredibly frustrating when your keyboard doesn't behave quite right.

This guide will take you through some basic steps to make sure your issue is not something simple caused by software on your computer.

Man staring frustratedly at computer.

2. Check the Keyboard Caps Lock & Shift Keys on Your Mac

Check the Caps Lock KeyMost keyboards have a key labeled Caps Lock on the left-hand side. Press the Caps Lock key one time, and try typing again.

Mac Desktop Keyboard

Mac Desktop keyboard with Caps Lock highlighted

Mac Laptop Keyboard

Mac laptop keyboard with Caps Lock highlighted

Check the Shift Keys

Sometimes, the Shift keys can get stuck, causing problems. Check the Shift key on the left and right sides of your keyboard and make sure they didn't get stuck down, then try typing again.

Mac Desktop Keyboard

Mac Desktop keyboard with Shift keys highlighted

Mac Laptop Keyboard

Mac Laptop keyboard with Shift keys highlighted

3. Reboot and Try Again

If the issue is still happening, you may need to restart as part of the troubleshooting process.

Before you restart or shut down your computer, make sure to save all necessary work to prevent data loss.

Reboot Your Mac

  1. From the menu bar across the top of the screen, select the Apple menu, then Restart...
macOS Mojave Apple Menu with Restart highlighted.
  1. Test your keyboard again to see if we fixed the issue.
TextEdit program open showing the keyboard works

4. Rule Out a Possible Hardware Issue

If Problems ContinueDealing with a Mac keyboard that's stuck typing in all caps can be a puzzling and inconvenient issue. Whether you're working on important documents, sending emails, or just browsing the web, this problem can significantly disrupt your activities. In this blog post, we'll explore several methods to troubleshoot and fix a Mac keyboard that’s typing everything in capital letters.

Understanding the Issue

Firstly, it's crucial to identify why your Mac keyboard is typing in all caps. Common causes include:

  1. Accidental Caps Lock Activation: The most straightforward reason is the Caps Lock key being engaged.
  2. Keyboard Settings Misconfiguration: Sometimes, settings within your Mac's preferences might be set incorrectly.
  3. Software Glitches: Occasionally, software issues within macOS can lead to this problem.
  4. Physical Keyboard Issues: There could be a physical problem with the keyboard itself, especially if it's an external one.

Step-by-Step Solutions

1. Check the Caps Lock Key

  • Toggle the Key: Press the Caps Lock key and see if that resolves the issue. On most Mac keyboards, a light on the Caps Lock key indicates whether it’s activated.
  • Keyboard Viewer: You can also use the Keyboard Viewer to see if Caps Lock is on. Enable it from System Preferences > Keyboard, and check the “Show keyboard and emoji viewers in menu bar” box.

2. Restart Your Mac

  • A simple restart can often fix temporary software glitches, including keyboard-related issues.

3. Check Your Keyboard Settings

  • System Preferences: Go to System Preferences > Keyboard.
  • Modifier Keys: Click on the ‘Modifier Keys’ button and ensure that the Caps Lock key hasn’t been set to perform another action.

4. Update macOS

  • Outdated software can cause various issues. Check for any available updates in the App Store or System Preferences > Software Update, and install them.

5. Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)

  • For non-removable battery MacBooks, shut down your computer, plug in the power adapter, hold Shift+Control+Option and the power button for 10 seconds, release, and then turn on your computer.
  • For Mac desktops, shut down, unplug the power cord, wait 15 seconds, plug it back in, wait another 5 seconds, and turn it on.

6. Try a Different User Account

  • Sometimes issues are specific to one user account. Try logging into a different account or create a new one to see if the problem persists.

7. Reset NVRAM or PRAM

  • Shut down your Mac, then turn it on and immediately press Option+Command+P+R. Hold these keys for about 20 seconds. This process resets the non-volatile RAM and parameter RAM.

8. Check for Physical Damage

  • If you’re using an external keyboard, inspect it for any physical damage. Clean the keyboard carefully to ensure no debris is causing the Caps Lock key to stick.

9. Use an External Keyboard (For MacBook Users)

  • Connect an external keyboard to your MacBook. If the issue doesn’t occur with the external keyboard, the problem likely lies with your MacBook’s built-in keyboard.

10. Seek Professional Help

  • If all else fails, it might be time to get your Mac checked by a professional. If you're using a MacBook, the issue could be related to a hardware problem with the built-in keyboard.

Preventative Measures

  • Regular Cleaning: Keep your keyboard clean to prevent issues with sticking keys.
  • Stay Updated: Regularly update your macOS to the latest version to avoid software-related issues.
  • Be Mindful of Keyboard Settings: Familiarize yourself with Mac’s keyboard settings to avoid accidental changes.

Conclusion

A keyboard stuck in caps lock mode on a Mac can be a source of frustration, but it’s usually fixable with some basic troubleshooting steps. Start with simple solutions like checking the Caps Lock key and restarting your Mac, and move onto more advanced methods if needed. If the problem persists despite all efforts, consulting a professional might be the best course of action. Remember, regular maintenance and updates can prevent many of these issues from arising in the first place.