Learning how to use iPad keyboard options can transform your tablet experience instantly! Your iPad offers two main ways to type—the built-in touchscreen keyboard that pops up when needed, or external keyboards that connect wirelessly.
The on-screen keyboard has cool tricks like split-typing (pull it apart with your fingers!) and a hidden trackpad feature (hold the spacebar and slide to move your cursor).
You'll type faster and have more fun with your iPad once you master these keyboard secrets. Read on to discover all the typing tricks that even long-time iPad users often miss!
iPad Keyboard Basics
Image: CHESONA Rugged Series Keyboard Case for iPad 10th Gen 10.9''
The iPad offers both on-screen and external keyboard options to fit your needs. Using your iPad keyboard effectively can make typing faster and more enjoyable.
Getting Started With The On-Screen Keyboard
The on-screen keyboard appears whenever you tap a text field. To type, simply touch the letters you want.
When you need capital letters, tap the Shift key once. If you want to type in all caps, double-tap the Shift key to turn on Caps Lock.
For numbers and symbols, tap the ".?123" key. This changes your keyboard view. To get back to letters, tap the "ABC" key.
You can also use special typing features:
- Split keyboard: Pull apart with two fingers to split the keyboard
- Floating keyboard: Pinch in on the keyboard to make it smaller and movable
- QuickType: Suggestions appear above the keyboard as you type
To hide the keyboard when you're done, tap the keyboard button in the bottom right corner.
Setting Up External iPad Keyboards
External keyboards connect to your iPad in different ways. Bluetooth keyboards pair wirelessly, while others connect through the Smart Connector.
To set up a Bluetooth keyboard:
- Turn on the keyboard
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPad
- Make sure Bluetooth is on
- Select the keyboard from the list of devices
- Enter the pairing code if prompted
Smart Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio attach magnetically to your iPad. Just line up the Smart Connector pins and the keyboard automatically connects—no pairing needed!
These external keyboards let you type faster and free up screen space. Many also include function keys for brightness, volume, and other controls.
Understanding iPad Keyboard Layout
The iPad keyboard layout is similar to a computer keyboard but has some differences. The main typing area has the same QWERTY layout you're used to, but special keys may be in different places.
On external keyboards, you'll find useful shortcut keys:
- Command (⌘): Hold this while pressing another key for shortcuts
- Globe key: Switch between languages or emoji keyboard
- Function keys: Control iPad features
Common keyboard shortcuts include:
- ⌘ + C: Copy
- ⌘ + V: Paste
- ⌘ + H: Go to Home Screen
- ⌘ + Space: Show Search
You can see all available shortcuts by holding down the Command key on an external keyboard. This displays a helpful list of shortcuts for the app you're using.
The Smart Keyboard Folio also works as a protective case when folded up. It's slim and doesn't need charging, since it draws power from your iPad.
Typing Tips For iPad Keyboard
Useful iPad Keyboard Shortcuts
Want to work faster on your iPad? Keyboard shortcuts are your best friend!
Press and hold the Command key to see a list of available shortcuts in any app. Command-Tab lets you quickly switch between apps without going to the home screen. This works just like on a Mac computer. Try it next time you need to check something in another app!
Command-Space opens the search function. You can find apps, documents, or even search the web from here. Command-H hides the current app, and Command-Shift-3 takes a screenshot of your entire screen.
If you have an external keyboard connected, these shortcuts work even better. But many work with the on-screen keyboard too.
Typing Special Characters And Symbols
Did you know your iPad keyboard hides many special characters? Just press and hold certain keys to see options.
For example, hold down the letter "a" to see accent options like à, á, â, and ä. Touch the one you want to use it.
For numbers and symbols, tap the ".?123" key. Need more symbols? Tap the "#+=" key that appears.
Currency symbols like $ and € are easy to find. Hold down the dollar sign to see other options.
Emojis are just a tap away! Press the emoji key (looks like a smiley face) on your keyboard to open the emoji keyboard.
You can scroll through categories or search for specific ones.
Using iPad Keyboard Text Editing Tools
Selecting text on an iPad is super easy. Double-tap a word to select it, or triple-tap to select an entire paragraph.
After selecting text, use the pop-up menu to cut, copy, or paste. You can also use shortcuts like Command-C (copy) and Command-V (paste) if you have an external keyboard.
Want to move your cursor precisely? Press and hold the spacebar. The keyboard turns into a trackpad!
Slide your finger to position the cursor exactly where you want it. Use two fingers on the keyboard to activate the floating keyboard mode.
This makes typing with your thumbs much easier. If you make a mistake, shake your iPad to undo your last action.
Or use Command-Z if you prefer keyboard shortcuts.
Upgrade your typing experience with our collection of keyboards for iPad/iPad Pro/iPad Air that offer perfect fit and enhanced functionality. Also, protect your investment with our tablet keyboard case collection that combines protection and typing comfort in one stylish package.
Making Your iPad Keyboard Work Better
Changing Keyboard Size And Settings
The iPad keyboard can be adjusted to fit your needs. If you find the on-screen keyboard too small, try rotating your iPad to landscape mode for a larger typing area.
This gives your fingers more room to move. To change how the keyboard looks, go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboards.
Here you can turn off "Show Lowercase Keys" if you prefer seeing only capital letters. This makes the keys easier to see for some people.
You can also make the keyboard split into two parts. Put two fingers on the keyboard and pull them apart.
This is super helpful when holding your iPad with both hands and typing with your thumbs. If your Magic Keyboard or other external keyboard isn't working, check its battery life.
Low power can cause connection problems. Also, make sure Bluetooth is turned on in your Settings.
Adding Languages To Your iPad Keyboard
Want to type in different languages? Your iPad makes this easy!
Go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards > Add New Keyboard. Pick any language you need.
Once you've added languages, switch between them by tapping the globe icon on your keyboard. Each tap cycles to the next language.
You can also hold the globe and select from a list. Some languages offer different keyboard layouts.
For example, Spanish gives you options for different Spanish-speaking countries. Chinese offers various input methods like pinyin or handwriting.
If you use multiple languages often, you don't need to switch manually each time. The iPad can automatically detect which language you're typing in and switch keyboards for you.
Using Dictation Instead Of Typing
Sometimes it's faster to speak than type. iPad's dictation feature turns your words into text.
Tap the microphone icon on your keyboard and start talking. Dictation works with most apps where you can type.
It's great for messages, emails, and notes. You can even add punctuation by saying "period," "comma," or "question mark."
For the best results:
- Speak clearly at a normal pace
- Stay in a quiet place
- Hold your iPad about a foot away from your mouth
Your words get sent to Apple for processing, so you need an internet connection. If you're worried about battery life while using dictation, connect to power when doing long dictation sessions.
Wireless keyboards like the Magic Keyboard often have their own special keys that work with dictation. Look for a microphone key that starts dictation without tapping the screen.
Once you understand how to use iPad keyboard basics, read our guide on how to maximize functionality with iPad keyboard cases to take your productivity to the next level with smart accessories.
iPad Keyboard Troubleshooting Guide
Fixing Keyboard Not Showing Up Problems
Is your on-screen keyboard missing? First, check if you're using an app that supports typing.
Some apps don't need keyboards and won't show one. Try tapping in a text field where you should be able to type.
If nothing happens, look for a keyboard button at the bottom right of your screen. Restart your iPad by holding the power button, then sliding to power off.
Wait 30 seconds before turning it back on. Check if Split Keyboard is enabled.
Go to Settings > General > Keyboard and make sure it's set up how you like it. Sometimes the keyboard might be "undocked" and floating.
To fix this, pinch your fingers together on the keyboard to return it to normal size and position.
Learn all about how to connect a keyboard to an iPad for step-by-step instructions on pairing any keyboard with your device.
Solving Connection Issues With External Keyboards
For Magic Keyboards or Smart Keyboard Folios, clean the Smart Connector. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe both your iPad's connector and the keyboard's connector.
Check if your keyboard needs charging. Magic Keyboards have batteries that need power to work properly.
Try disconnecting and reconnecting the keyboard. If using Bluetooth, go to Settings > Bluetooth, forget the device, then pair it again.
Restart your iPad while the keyboard is disconnected. Then reconnect it afterward.
Update your iPad to the latest iOS version. Apple often fixes bugs in updates that might be causing your keyboard problems.
What To Do When Your iPad Keyboard Acts Weird
If keys aren't responding or typing the wrong letters, check for physical debris under the keys. Gently clean with compressed air.
Turn off keyboard features that might be causing issues. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard and try disabling Auto-Correction or Predictive Text.
Is your keyboard typing on its own or repeating letters? This might be due to sticky keys or settings issues.
Reset your keyboard dictionary in Settings > General > Reset > Reset Keyboard Dictionary if you're getting strange word suggestions.
Check for water damage if your keyboard suddenly starts acting strangely. Let it dry completely before trying to use it again.
If nothing works, try using a different keyboard app from the App Store as a temporary solution.
Where To Get the Best iPad Keyboard Case
Image: CHESONA Cloud Series Keyboard Case for iPad 10th Gen 2022 (Red)
For high-quality iPad keyboard cases that are easy to use and hassle-free, Chesona offers several exceptional options. Their premium keyboard cases combine durability with responsive typing experiences.
At Chesona, you'll find all types of keyboard cases, for tablets and iPads, such as the iPad 11 Pro keyboard cases featuring backlit keys and a precise trackpad that rivals laptop keyboards. This case offers multiple viewing angles and long battery life that lasts for weeks on a single charge.
For those who need extra protection, Chesona's rugged iPad case with keyboard provides military-grade drop defense while maintaining a comfortable typing experience—perfect for fieldwork or family use.
Their iPad cases with USB Ports collection offer added connectivity options, while their iPad case with pencil holder designs ensure your Apple Pencil stays secure and charged.
Want to find the perfect keyboard case for your specific iPad model? Check out Chesona's guide: Best Keyboard Case for iPad Pro You Need to discover even more options that will transform how you use your iPad.
Final Thoughts on How To Use an iPad Keyboard
Mastering how to use your iPad keyboard opens up a world of productivity and convenience whether you're typing a quick email or writing a long document. The more you practice these keyboard techniques, the faster and more efficient your iPad workflow will become.
Remember that your iPad keyboard experience can be customized to fit your specific needs through Settings. Whether you prefer the on-screen keyboard with its flexibility or an external keyboard for serious typing sessions, your iPad can adapt to how you want to work.
Try these tips today to make the most of your device! Also, check out our guide: How to Choose the Best iPad Keyboard Case for Protection? to find the perfect balance of typing comfort and device safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use the keyboard with my iPad?
To use a keyboard with your iPad, you need to connect it first. For Magic Keyboards, place it on a flat surface with the Apple logo facing up. Open the lid and put your iPad in the groove above the number keys.
For Bluetooth keyboards, turn the keyboard on and put it in pairing mode. Go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPad.
Tap the keyboard name when it appears in the list of devices. Once connected, you can type just like on a computer. The keyboard will work in any app that accepts text input.
How do I engage my keyboard on my iPad?
For physical keyboards like the Magic Keyboard or Smart Keyboard Folio, your iPad will automatically switch to using the external keyboard when it's connected.
For the on-screen keyboard, tap any text field and it will pop up. If your on-screen keyboard doesn't appear, check if you have a physical keyboard connected.
Your iPad usually hides the on-screen keyboard when an external one is connected. You might need to fold your Magic Keyboard into typing position for it to work properly.
How do I switch between keyboards on iPad?
To switch between different language keyboards on the on-screen keyboard, tap the globe icon on the keyboard.
If you want to switch from a physical keyboard back to the on-screen keyboard, you can disconnect the physical keyboard.
Or, if using a Magic Keyboard, you can tap the keyboard button in the Control Center.
For Bluetooth keyboards, you can turn off Bluetooth or power off the keyboard to switch back to the on-screen keyboard.
How do I pop up the keyboard on my iPad?
To make the on-screen keyboard appear, tap any text field or area where you can type. This includes search bars, note apps, or email compose windows.
If the keyboard doesn't pop up, check if you have an external keyboard connected.
You might need to disconnect it first. You can also force the keyboard to appear by going to Control Center and tapping the keyboard icon.
Is it worth getting a keyboard for an iPad?
A keyboard can turn your iPad into a more productive device. If you write a lot of emails, documents, or do school work, a keyboard will make typing faster and more comfortable.
The Magic Keyboard adds a trackpad too, which makes your iPad feel more like a laptop. This is super helpful for editing text and working with spreadsheets.
But if you mostly use your iPad for watching videos, playing games, or browsing the web, you might not need a keyboard. Think about how you use your iPad most before spending the money.
