How to Change Keys () and [] on Windows 10

Introduction

Are you tired of constantly reaching for the square brackets and parentheses while typing on your Windows 10 computer? Do you wish there was an easier way to access these symbols? Look no further! In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of changing the keys for () and [] on Windows 10. Whether you are a programmer, a writer, or just someone who frequently uses these symbols, this guide will help you save time and increase productivity.

Why Change the Keys for () and []?

Before diving into the process of changing the keys, let’s discuss why you might want to do this in the first place.

Firstly, using the square brackets and parentheses frequently can be uncomfortable and even painful for some people. This is especially true for those who suffer from conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive strain injury. By changing the keys to more convenient locations, you can reduce the strain on your hands and fingers.

Secondly, if you are a programmer or someone who frequently types code, you know how important it is to have quick access to these symbols. By changing the keys to more accessible locations, you can save time and increase productivity.

Method 1: Using Microsoft PowerToys

Microsoft PowerToys is a free set of utilities for Windows 10 that includes a tool called Keyboard Manager. This tool allows you to remap keys on your keyboard, including the keys for () and []. Here’s how to use it:

1. Download and install Microsoft PowerToys from the Microsoft website.
2. Launch PowerToys and click on “Keyboard Manager” in the left sidebar.
3. Click on the “Remap a key” button.
4. Click on the “Type key” button and press the key you want to remap (e.g., the left square bracket).
5. Click on the “Type key” button again and press the key you want to map it to (e.g., the left parenthesis).
6. Click on “OK” to save the changes.

Repeat the process for the other key (e.g., right square bracket to right parenthesis). Once you have remapped the keys, you should be able to access the symbols () and [] by pressing the more convenient keys.

Method 2: Using SharpKeys

SharpKeys is another free utility for Windows 10 that allows you to remap keys on your keyboard. Here’s how to use it:

1. Download and install SharpKeys from the official website.
2. Launch SharpKeys and click on the “Add” button.
3. Click on the “Type Key” button and press the key you want to remap (e.g., the left square bracket).
4. Click on the “Type Key” button again and press the key you want to map it to (e.g., the left parenthesis).
5. Click on “OK” to save the changes.
6. Repeat the process for the other key (e.g., right square bracket to right parenthesis).

Once you have remapped the keys using SharpKeys, you should be able to access the symbols () and [] by pressing the more convenient keys.

Method 3: Using AutoHotkey

AutoHotkey is a free, open-source scripting language for Windows that allows you to automate tasks and remap keys on your keyboard. Here’s how to use it:

1. Download and install AutoHotkey from the official website.
2. Launch Notepad and create a new file.
3. Copy and paste the following code into the file:

[::
Send (
return

]::
Send )
return

4. Save the file with a .ahk extension (e.g., remap.ahk).
5. Double-click on the file to run the script.

Once you have run the script, you should be able to access the symbols () and [] by pressing the more convenient keys.

Method 4: Using Registry Editor

Registry Editor is a built-in utility in Windows 10 that allows you to view and edit the Windows registry. Here’s how to use it to remap keys:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “regedit” (without quotes) and press Enter to open Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlKeyboard Layout

4. Right-click on the “Keyboard Layout” folder and select “New” > “Binary Value”.
5. Name the new value “Scancode Map” (without quotes).
6. Double-click on the “Scancode Map” value and enter the following code:

00000000 00000000 02000000 1A002200 1B002100 00000000

7. Click on “OK” to save the changes.
8. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Once you have restarted your computer, you should be able to access the symbols () and [] by pressing the more convenient keys.

Conclusion

Changing the keys for () and [] on Windows 10 can be a great way to save time and increase productivity, especially if you frequently use these symbols. In this blog post, we have discussed four different methods for remapping keys on your keyboard, including using Microsoft PowerToys, SharpKeys, AutoHotkey, and Registry Editor. Try out these methods and see which one works best for you.

One way to change the keys for () and [] on Windows 10 is to use a program called SharpKeys. SharpKeys is a free and open-source tool that allows you to remap your keyboard keys. Here’s how you can use it:

1. Download and install SharpKeys from the official website: https://github.com/randyrants/sharpkeys/releases
2. Launch SharpKeys and click the “Add” button.
3. In the “From key” field, select the key you want to remap (e.g. the “9” key).
4. In the “To key” field, select the key you want to map it to (e.g. the “(” key).
5. Click the “Write to Registry” button and then close SharpKeys.
6. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Alternatively, you can use a third party software like AutoHotKey, you can create script to remap the keys you want.

You can use the free AutoHotkey program to remap your keys. Here’s a script that changes Shift+( to [. You can easily modify it or add more commands if needed.

(::
if GetKeyState("Shift")
  Send, [
else
  Send, (
return

To use the script, install AutoHotkey, save the script in a .ahk file and double-click it to run. To stop the script, right-click on the green H icon in the traybar and choose Exit. To run the script on login, place it in the Startup folder located at C:\Users\USER-NAME\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup.

AutoHotkey references:

• If (Expression)
• GetKeyState