Is there an alternative to the 'insert' key?

On my logitech keyboard the Insert key has been replaced by a doubly big delete button.

I don't mind, because I never use insert mode.

However, very occasionally I end up in insert mode. Of course, when this happens, I don't have an Insert key to get me back out. So I need a reboot

How can this happen?

Is there another shortcut that gets me into 'insert' mode?

3

8 Answers

Remove num-lock and press 0     on the numpad.

4

I just read somewhere that, for example on the Logitech LX-501 keyboard, the Insert is on one of the round blue buttons (next to the function keys). On some Microsoft keyboards one needs to hold down some Fn-key and press PrtScr.

So: are you sure there's no Insert key on your keyboard?

trex279's answer is probably the best one you're going to find but I thought I'd throw out an alternative:

Open the On-Screen Keyboard (on WinXP: Start > All Programs > Accessories > Accesibility > On-Screen Keyboard) and click the ins key.

Press Shift + 0 on the number pad to go into Insert mode.

On a laptop you may have to use Fn to get to 0 on the num pad.

E.g. on my Dell Latitude I had to press Shift + Fn + M to turn off overtype mode.

0

My answer is very specific to one particular situation. It will not necessarily work in other situations. I have a Logitech k750-mac solar wireless keyboard. I am running on a MacBook Pro accessing a Windows 10 desktop remotely. In this situation, I use the Shift + number-pad-0 key. But it only works with some software! Furthermore, I suspect the answer to this question will be more or less a table of situations with solutions specific to those situations, rather than a general solution.

2

On Logitech K811, hold fn while clicking the delete key to get insert.

On a small laptop, like the new HP G5, you have to activate the NumLock to access the numbers pad, then use shift + 0. It is not written, but it works to activate and deactivate this stupid feature.

on a Microsoft All in one media keyboard (with no number pad), I found fn + \ works as the substitute for the Ins key

Your Answer

Sign up or log in

Sign up using Google Sign up using Facebook Sign up using Email and Password Submit

Post as a guest

Post Your Answer Discard

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy