One of the primary input devices used for most desktop computers is the keyboard. (I know when I'm writing these tips, I'd have a very hard time doing it without a keyboard!) Like any other device connected to your computer, Windows allows you to adjust how it interacts with your system.
The biggest way you can adjust your keyboard is to change the speed at which it reacts to you. Specifically, you can adjust how long you have to hold down keys in order to have them start repeating and, once they start repeating, how quickly the repeating occurs. This adjustment comes in handy if you tend to rest your fingers "heavily" on keys or if you tend to leave keys depressed longer than you want. Here's how to make the adjustments:

Figure 1. The Keyboard Properties dialog box.
There is no "proper" setting for these controls; you should simply set them so that you can comfortably use the keyboard and have it react as you expect.
![]()
![]()
This tip (13420) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.
You may still need to use programs that worked under older versions of Windows that don't work so well under Windows 7 or ...
Discover MoreThe File Explorer can start in either of two locations. This tip tells you how to set its default startup location to one ...
Discover MoreBeing able to customize your theme is a great way to personalize your computer, but what if you want to share your theme ...
Discover MoreThere are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Copyright © 2026 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments