our blog

If Switching Languages Makes You Mad

If Switching Languages Makes You Mad - 1

It doesn’t have to be like that

Most people working on a computer with only two languages switch them with the help of the Ctrl + Shift key combination and have no problems with that (we are talking about Windows). It may become even easier with Punto Switcher.

But as soon as there are more than two languages in the system, the number of nervous key hits and stifled moans while trying to finally get the needed language increases dramatically. It is particularly painful when you have typed the whole line only to find that it is nothing but complete nonsense, and you need to type the whole text from the beginning. Punto Switcher is of little help here: it gets surprised whenever told there are other languages in the world apart from English and Russian.

* * *

With a small effort, you can solve this problem once and for all. The method is very simple: you just need to disable language switching with the Ctrl + Shift command and turn on direct shortcuts for each language instead. The easiest way is below:

  • Alt + Shift + 1—English
  • Alt + Shift + 2—your second language
  • Alt + Shift + 3—your third language
  • Alt + Shift + 4—your fourth language
  • and so on

Pros:

  • The wrong layout issue will disappear. In a week, you will make a startling discovery that in a mysterious way the right language switches by itself when needed.
  • Alt + Shift + digit combinations are HANDY—they can be pressed with one HAND.
  • You won’t need the language indicator on the taskbar anymore: you will stop checking it regularly.

Cons:

  • You will have to suffer for a few days until your brain remembers the new commands.
  • If someone else is using your computer, they may go crazy.
  • If you will need to use someone else’s computer, you may go crazy.

How to enable direct shortcuts in Windows 10:

Start > Control Panel > Clock, Language and Region > Language on the right > Advanced settings on the left > Change language bar hot keys > Set everything and select OK many times.

Recommended content

If Switching Languages Makes You Mad - 2

How to Configure the Enter Key Behavior in Passolo

Passolo software (also known as SDL Passolo) is one of the most user-friendly tools for software localization. However, even experienced Passolo translators may not realize that the Enter key behavior in this program can be customized. Adjusting this setting helps you prevent unwanted automatic confirmation of segments, maintain flexibility during translation, and improve your overall […]
If Switching Languages Makes You Mad - 3

Keyboard Shortcuts to Launch Programs in Windows

Many Windows users don’t realize that simple Windows hotkeys can open the apps they need faster than clicking through menus. If you regularly work with office programs such as Word, Excel, or Outlook, mastering Windows keyboard commands can save you tens of minutes every day. Basic keyboard shortcuts to launch programs Windows 10 and Windows […]
If Switching Languages Makes You Mad - 4

How to Insert a Tab Character in a Word Table

Most Microsoft Word users know that the Tab key creates an indent in the text. When you place the cursor in a regular paragraph and press Tab, the program inserts a tab character — a hidden formatting mark that helps align text precisely. This basic but powerful Word formatting tool allows you to create structured lists, […]
If Switching Languages Makes You Mad - 5

How to Fix the “Argument ‘0’ is out of range” Error in Trados Studio

When working in Trados Studio, translators may sometimes encounter a confusing message: Argument '0' is out of range. It should be between 1 and 2147483647. Parameter name: <...> At first glance, this looks like pure technical jargon—just “something wrong with numbers.” However, in practice, this Trados Studio error can block saving and make it seem […]
If Switching Languages Makes You Mad - 6

How to Translate TXLF Wordfast Files in Trados Studio

Trados Studio can be used to translate .txlf Wordfast files If you do not have or do not like or do not work in Wordfast, you can translate its files in Trados Studio. Trados Studio knows well how to process different file types (Word, Excel, HTML and many, many others). To teach your Trados Studio to work with TXLF Wordfast files means to […]