Changing your system default language in Windows 10 is simple and can be done instantly using shortcut keys.
Whether you’ve added multiple languages (like English, Hindi, or Punjabi) or want to switch between them quickly,
this guide will show you the fastest way to change language settings — no restart required!
💡 Introduction
Windows 10 allows users to add multiple input and display languages easily.
Instead of manually changing language settings every time, you can use a keyboard shortcut to switch languages instantly.
This is very helpful for multilingual users, students, and professionals who type in more than one language.
🔹 Default Shortcut Key for Changing Language
By default, Windows 10 uses the following shortcut keys to switch input languages:
| Action | Shortcut Key |
|---|---|
| Switch between input languages | Left Alt + Shift |
| Cycle through languages and keyboard layouts | Windows + Spacebar |
👉 Press Windows + Spacebar to quickly toggle between installed languages on your taskbar.
🔹 Step-by-Step Guide to Add or Change System Language
🧩 Step 1: Open Language Settings
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
-
Go to Time & Language → Language.
🧩 Step 2: Add a New Language
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Click Add a preferred language.
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Search and select your desired language (e.g., Hindi, French, Arabic).
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Click Next → Install.
🧩 Step 3: Set Default Language
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After installation, select the newly added language.
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Click Set as default to make it your system language.
🧩 Step 4: Use Shortcut Key to Switch Languages
Now you can press:
-
Windows + Spacebar or
-
Left Alt + Shift
to instantly change languages while typing in Word, Notepad, or any other app.
🔹 How to Customize Shortcut Keys
If you want to change the default shortcut:
-
Press Windows + R, type
control, and hit Enter. -
Go to Clock and Region → Language → Advanced Settings.
-
Click Change language bar hot keys.
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Choose your preferred shortcut and click OK.
💡 Bonus Tip
You can also pin the Language Bar to your taskbar for quick access.
Just go to Advanced Keyboard Settings → Use the desktop language bar when available, and enable it.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. Can I change the display language with the shortcut key?
No, the shortcut only switches the input (typing) language. To change display language, go to settings manually.
Q2. Does this method work on Windows 11?
Yes, the same shortcut keys (Windows + Spacebar) also work in Windows 11.
Q3. What if the shortcut key doesn’t work?
Make sure multiple languages are installed and keyboard layout switching is enabled.
Q4. Can I remove a language I added?
Yes, go to Settings → Language → Click the language → Remove.
