Why does my forward slash turn into an e?

Your forward slash key is producing an 'é' because your computer's software settings are configured to a Canadian French keyboard layout, which maps that key differently.

Understanding Keyboard Layouts and Your Issue

The primary reason your forward slash (/) is turning into an acute accent (é) is due to your computer's Text Services and Input Language settings. Even if you are using a physical English standard keyboard, your computer's operating system dictates how keystrokes are interpreted.

This often happens when your system's keyboard input is configured for a Canadian French keyboard layout. On this specific layout, the key that typically produces a forward slash (/) on a standard English keyboard is instead mapped to produce an acute accent (é). The physical keyboard itself hasn't changed, but the software instructing the computer on what character to generate has.

How to Revert Your Keyboard Layout Settings

To fix this issue, you need to change your input language or keyboard layout back to a standard English (e.g., US English) configuration. Here's how to do it for common operating systems:

For Windows Users

1. Open Settings: Click the Start button, then select the "Settings" gear icon.
2. Navigate to Language: Go to "Time & Language," then select "Language" from the left-hand menu.
3. Manage Preferred Languages: Under "Preferred languages," find your primary language (e.g., English (United States)).
4. Check Keyboard Layouts: Click "Options" next to your preferred language.
5. Add/Remove Keyboards: Under "Keyboards," you should see a list of installed layouts. If "Canadian French" is listed, remove it. If "US QWERTY" or "English (United States) - US" is not present, click "Add a keyboard" and select the appropriate English layout.
6. Set Default: Ensure your desired English layout is at the top of the list or set as the default.

For more detailed guidance, refer to the official Microsoft support page on managing input and display language settings.

For macOS Users

1. Open System Settings: Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner, then select "System Settings" (or "System Preferences" on older macOS versions).
2. Go to Keyboard: Scroll down and click on "Keyboard."
3. Manage Input Sources: Click "Input Sources."
4. Add/Remove Layouts: Look for the "Canadian French" input source in the list. Select it and click the minus ("-") button to remove it. If your preferred English layout (e.g., "U.S.") is not present, click the plus ("+") button, search for "English," and add the correct layout.
5. Set Default: Ensure your desired English layout is listed as the primary input source.

For more information, visit the official Apple support page on changing input sources on Mac.

Quick Language Switching Shortcut (Temporary Fix)

Sometimes, the keyboard layout can be accidentally switched using a keyboard shortcut:

• Windows: Try pressing Alt + Shift simultaneously. This often cycles through installed keyboard layouts.
• macOS: Try pressing Ctrl + Space or Cmd + Space (depending on your settings). This typically opens the Spotlight search but can also be configured to switch input sources.

Common Reasons for Unexpected Keyboard Layout Changes

• Accidental Shortcut Activation: As mentioned, Alt + Shift (Windows) or Ctrl + Space (macOS) can quickly change your keyboard layout without you realizing it.
• Multiple User Profiles: If multiple users share a computer, each profile might have different language and keyboard settings.
• Regional Installation Defaults: During operating system installation, if a region like Canada is selected, a Canadian French keyboard layout might be installed by default or prioritized.
• Software Installations: Some applications or updates might alter language preferences, especially if they are multi-lingual.

Key Differences: US Standard vs. Canadian French Layout (for / key)

To illustrate the specific mapping causing your issue, consider this simplified comparison:

Keyboard Layout	Function of the / Key
US Standard English	Produces a forward slash (/)
Canadian French	Produces an acute accent (é)

Proactive Tips to Prevent Future Changes

• Remove Unused Layouts: To prevent accidental switching, it's best to remove any keyboard layouts you don't actively use from your system settings.
• Be Mindful of Shortcuts: If you frequently use Alt + Shift or similar key combinations, be aware that they can inadvertently change your input language.
• Periodically Check Settings: It's a good practice to periodically review your language and keyboard settings, especially after system updates or new software installations.

By adjusting your keyboard input settings, you can easily resolve the issue and get your forward slash key working as expected again.