Typing in multiple languages, such as Arabic and English, can be challenging if you don’t know how to switch keyboards efficiently. Whether you are writing documents, chatting online, or creating designs, knowing how to toggle between Arabic and English keyboards is essential.
In this guide, we will show you simple steps to switch keyboards on different devices and provide tips to make typing easier.
Switching between Arabic and English Keyboard
Why Switching Keyboards Is Important
Arabic is written from right to left, while English is written left to right. Switching keyboards allows you to:
- Type correctly in both languages
- Maintain proper text alignment and punctuation
- Avoid mistakes when typing words with letters that exist in both languages
Without switching, you may end up typing wrong letters or symbols, which can be confusing for readers.
Switching Keyboards on Windows
Windows makes it easy to toggle between Arabic and English keyboards:
- Go to Settings → Time & Language → Language → Add a language.
- Select Arabic and add it to your system.
- Use the language bar in the taskbar to switch between Arabic and English.
- Shortcut: Press Alt + Shift or Windows Key + Space to toggle quickly.
Tip:
Practice switching while typing short sentences. This helps your fingers get used to the keyboard layout changes.
Switching Keyboards on Mac
On Mac computers, switching between Arabic and English is also simple:
- Open System Preferences → Keyboard → Input Sources → Add (+).
- Select Arabic and click Add.
- Use the menu bar to toggle between languages.
- Shortcut: Press Command + Space to switch keyboards.
Tip:
Enable Show Input Menu in Menu Bar to quickly see which language is active.
Switching Keyboards on Mobile Devices
Most smartphones allow you to add multiple keyboards:
- iPhone/iPad:
- Go to Settings → General → Keyboard → Keyboards → Add New Keyboard → Arabic
- Tap the globe icon on the keyboard to switch languages
- Android:
- Go to Settings → System → Languages & Input → Virtual Keyboard → Gboard → Languages → Add Keyboard → Arabic
- Tap the globe icon or long-press the spacebar to switch
Tip:
Practice typing short messages in both languages to get used to the toggle.
Using Virtual Keyboards
If you don’t want to change system settings, you can use online virtual keyboards:
- MyArabicKeyboard allows you to type Arabic online easily.
- Copy and paste your text into documents or Canva designs.
- This is especially useful for beginners who are still learning key positions.
Tips for Faster Switching
- Learn the shortcuts: Using Alt + Shift (Windows) or Command + Space (Mac) saves time.
- Label your keyboards: For beginners, printing a small guide or using stickers helps identify keys.
- Practice daily: The more you switch, the faster your fingers adjust.
- Use typing games: Practice switching while playing Arabic typing games online.
Final Thoughts
Switching between Arabic and English keyboards is simple once you know the steps. On Windows, Mac, or mobile devices, you can toggle quickly using shortcuts or the menu bar.
Tools like MyArabicKeyboard make typing Arabic easier for beginners. By practicing regularly, you can type efficiently in both languages, maintain proper alignment, and improve your overall typing speed.