keyboard key with L \ and |

[MervynFrank]

my keyboard L key also shows the \ and | symbols on it but I can only get upper and lower case L and I don't know how to make the key select \ and |   

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @MervynFrank,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

On most HP notebooks (and standard keyboards), the L key only types L or l. The \ and | symbols printed on the same key usually indicate an alternate function accessed through a modifier key, but this depends on your keyboard layout. 

Here’s what to check:

1. Identify Your Keyboard Layout

• If your keyboard is US QWERTY, the \ and | are normally on a separate key near Enter, not on L.
• If they appear on the L key, your keyboard might be using a non-standard layout (e.g., French AZERTY, Italian, or custom).

2. Try Modifier Keys

• Press Alt Gr + L (on some international layouts, Alt Gr gives access to third-level characters).
• Or try Ctrl + Alt + L if Alt Gr isn’t available.

3. Check Windows Keyboard Settings

• Go to Settings → Time & Language → Language & Region → Keyboard Layout.
• Confirm which layout is active. If it’s not the one you expect, switch to US QWERTY or your preferred layout.

4. Use On-Screen Keyboard

• Press Windows + Ctrl + O to open the On-Screen Keyboard.
• Hover over the L key; if it shows \ or | as alternate options, you can click them or learn the modifier key.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat