On-Screen Keyboard in Windows XP

You may not realize that Windows XP comes with a rather cool virtual keyboard that you can operate with your mouse. When you start the On-Screen Keyboard a graphical representation of a keyboard is loaded as a separate window.

To type with the virtual keyboard, you simply click the corresponding key with your mouse. This feature is mainly intended as an accessibility option. The On-Screen Keyboard allows people with mobility impairments to type using a mouse or joystick in place of a standard keyboard.

To access the On-Screen Keyboard:

Open the document that you want to type into.
Click "Start" and then click "Run".
Input "OSK" (without the quotes) in to the Run box and then click "OK".
The virtual keyboard should load.

You may never have a pressing need to use the On-Screen Keyboard. However, its good to know its there.

XP Tips - Computer Tips for Windows XP