If some of the keys on your keyboard are typing numbers instead of letters, check to make sure Num Lock is not on. This seems obvious, but it’s a common occurrence on laptop and notebook computers, and it’s not as easy as just pressing a NumLock key to turn it off.

On some Gateway notebook computers, for example, you toggle the NumLock function by pressing Fn+. In other words, you hold down the Fn key (lower left of the keyboard) while pressing and releasing the Scroll key. Toggle means the keystroke turns the function on it it’s off or off it it’s on.

On some Packard-Bell keyboards, you hold down the Fn key while pressing the Ins key.

The important thing to remember is that if your keyboard is typing numbers when you’re trying to type letters, it’s likely that Num Lock is on. Your next step is to read the manual or check the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to toggle Num Lock off.