Fixing the Modifier Key Issue on Your Mac

Are you experiencing issues with your modifier keys on your Mac? If so, you're not alone. The problem stems from a simple yet crucial difference in the arrangement of these keys between Mac and Windows keyboards. In this article, we'll explore the solution to this common issue.

Step 1: Open System Preferences → Keyboard → Modifier Keys

Fortunately, there is a dead-simple fix for this issue. By making a small adjustment to your keyboard settings, you can get back to typing comfortably on your Mac.

The Problem with Modifier Key Arrangement

The problem isn't the function of the keys, because as we discussed, from a pure functionality standpoint, the modifier keys (Control, Option, Command) all map 1:1. For example, the Control (⌃) key does the same thing on a Mac that it does on Windows, the Option (⌥) key on Mac does the same thing as the Alt key on Windows, and the Command (⌘) key on Mac does the same thing as the Windows key.

Swapping Keys to Solve the Issue

However, instead of the friendly ⌃, ⌥, and ⌘ keys, I was presented with Control, Windows, and Alt keys. Immediately, I could sense relief in my wrists, but because this was a keyboard designed for Windows and not for Mac, the switch presented a whole new problem.

Using a Windows Keyboard on Your Mac

I just so happened to have an AmazonBasics wired keyboard available thanks to my recent Hackintosh build, so I decided to use it with my Mac. The shallow key travel of the MacBook's keyboard is partly to blame for the discomfort. Over the last few days I've been finding myself using a keyboard designed for Windows users on my Mac.

The Solution: Swap Your Keys

To fix this issue and prevent wrist pain, you can simply swap your keys by going to System Preferences → Keyboard → Modifier Keys. This will allow you to use your MacBook's keyboard with greater comfort and ease.

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