Option key stuck

Howdy,

Do you actually have an Option key that is stuck? Like not working correctly?

You can test for that with the Keyboard Viewer.

First, [ √ ] Show Input menu in menu bar with the System Preference > Keyboard > Input Sources.

Then with that Input Menu, Show Keyboard Viewer.

You will see a representation of your keyboard layout that will highlight keys as they are pressed. If you have a stuck key, like the Option key, it will show pressed even when not touching it.

If that is the case, try tapping on the key repeatedly to see if it will free up, or see if you can clean the keyboard to eliminate debris that may cause the issue.

See also How to clean your Apple products

and If your Apple wireless mouse, keyboard, or trackpad isn't working with your Mac as expected

Also, I've never used Sticky Keys to try and fix a random stuck key, but do you need to exit out of System Preferences for the test you describe? The steps you list all seem to be within System Preferences without leaving them.

ivan

Thanks for the clarification and link.

So have you stepped through the steps to "Stick" the Option key, then release it again while in System Preferences without leaving System Preferences?

I find I can not have the Keyboard Viewer visible for all this, but I can leave the System Preferences open.

It also helps to insure the Sticky Key Option to Display pressed keys on screen is set so you get a visual of the action.

I can also test if the Option key is active by looking at several menus.

Example, in the Apple menu, "About this Mac" changes to "System Information…" if Option is down.

ivan