keyboard Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Why aren’t the keys on computer keyboards in alphabetical order?

Posted on February 2, 2026

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Question from Tina: I was typing up a paper for school the other day when I started wondering why the letters on computer keyboards aren’t in alphabetical order.

I had never really thought about it before, but now I’m curious. Are all computer keyboards laid out this way? And if they are, why?

Surely it would be easier to learn to type if the keys were laid out in alphabetical order, right? [Read more…]

Q&A: Can I connect a full-size computer keyboard to my tablet?

Posted on January 25, 2025

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Question from Danica: Rick, I recently purchased a 10″ Android tablet and I really like it.

It came with a keyboard cover but the keys on it are way too small for me to type without making lots of mistakes.

Is it possible to use a regular full-sized USB computer keyboard with a tablet? [Read more…]

Q&A: Can spilling something on a keyboard damage the entire computer?

Posted on December 9, 2023

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Question from Kayla: I spilled a large glass of coke all over my keyboard.

After I saw what I had done I immediately unplugged the power cable from the computer and disconnected the keyboard from the USB port.

I’m not worried about the keyboard since they’re so cheap, but it’s the tower that has me worried.

Do you think I can just buy a new keyboard and plug it in or do you recommend having the computer checked out by a repair shop first to make sure it’s not damaged? [Read more…]

Q&A: Are there any keyboards with keys that won’t wear off?

Posted on December 4, 2023

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Question from Dawn: Rick, Are there any keyboards which have keys that don’t wear off like the old days when they were baked on?

I’m tired of replacing keyboards because for some reason my body oils take the paint off the keys.

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: How do I lock my PC using the mouse?

Posted on October 1, 2023

Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter

Question from Earl: I hope you don’t mind but I need help with something about Windows.

I’m 78 years old and my fingers are stiff and in almost constant pain from arthritis.

I can use a mouse fairly well but I have a hard time using a keyboard.

I know how to lock my computer using a keyboard shortcut but is there any way to do it using the mouse instead? That would be a big help to me if it’s possible. [Read more…]