Q: My iPad will not perform an icloud backup but will not allow any other actions...will not let me unlock, or use any programs.  What do I need to do?

Reset it by holding the power and home buttons at the same time until you see the Apple logo, then release.

Then, to troubleshoot your iCloud backups, try deleting your last backup (if you have one) by turning off iCloud Backup in Settings>iCloud>Storage & Backup, then tap Manage Storage, swipe across your backup and tap Delete, then go back and turn iCloud Backup back on again.  If it still won't back up, you may have an app that is preventing the backup from succeeding.  To locate which one, go to Settings>iCloud>Storage & Backup>Manage Storage, tap the name of your device under Backups, under Backup Options tap Show All Apps, then turn them all to Off (including camera roll) and try backing up again.  If it succeeds, then the camera roll and/or one of your apps is preventing the backup and you'll have to located by process of elimination. Turn the camera roll On and try backing up again.  If it succeeds, turn some of your apps to On and try backing up again.  If it succeeds again, turn some more apps to On then try again; repeat this process until it fails.  Eventually you'll be able to locate the problem app and exclude it from your backup.

I am happily popping in and out of programs, a couple of updates were waiting for me - they loaded without any problem, and I backed up my Calendar and Music (iTunes library) and it seems to be happy (just like I am!)

I use a MacBook Pro most of the time and the music libraries are synced and backed up so all is well in my little world.  MEGA THANKS for your super-prompt and easy-to-follow instructions!

Have a great evening!
~Roxanne

You're welcome.  You too.