my shift key dont work

Go to control panel and open "keyboard", click on hardware and properties. If it is not loaded with the correct drivers click on troubleshoot and follow the directions.

Or try what microsoft says:

The keyboard is not functioning

If the keyboard is not functioning, make sure that it is connected correctly to the computer. Check all the keyboard's plugs (PS/2 and USB) to make sure that there are no loose connections.

If an adapter (USB to PS/2 or PS/2 to AT) is being used, verify that it is the adapter that came with the keyboard or that the keyboard supports adapting to a different port. For example, the Internet Keyboard does not adapt to a USB port, and a PS/2 to USB adapter will not work. It does not include an adapter.

If the issue continues to occur, connect the keyboard to a different computer. If the keyboard functions correctly on a different computer, the port to which the keyboard was connected on the original computer may be damaged. If this is the case, contact your computer manufacturer to inquire about how to repair or replace the damaged port.

If the keyboard does not function correctly on another computer, the keyboard may be defective. If this is the case, and the warranty on the keyboard is still valid, you can exchange the defective keyboard for a new keyboard.

To remove and then reinstall the driver, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the device from the computer.
2. Turn off the power for the device, if the device has a separate power supply.
3. Open Device Manager. To do this, use one of the following methods:
• In Windows Vista, click Start Collapse this imageExpand this image , type device in the Start Search box, and then click Device Manager in the Programs list.
  
  Collapse this imageExpand this image If you are prompted for an administrator password or for a confirmation, type the password, or click Allow.
• In Windows XP, click Start, click Run, type devmgmt.msc, and then click OK.
4. Double-click Keyboard, right-click the keyboard that you use, and then click Uninstall.
   
   Note If your device is not listed, this means that the device was removed automatically when you disconnected the device. Continue to the next step.
5. Restart the computer.
6. Turn the power back on for the device, if you have to, and then plug the device into the computer. Your computer detects the device, and then reinstalls the drivers for the device.

To download the latest drivers for the keyboard that you are using, visit the following Microsoft hardware Web site:

http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/download/download.aspx?category=MK (http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/download/download.aspx?category=MK)

To change your port connection:

1. Shut down your computer, and then plug your device into the correct port.
2. Make sure that the plug is pushed securely into the connector on the computer.
3. Restart your computer. Microsoft Windows detects the change, and then installs the drivers on the new port automatically.

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Hi,

sometimes it's just a real sticky key. my clue is that you say it makes weird symbols.

try this:

hold the keyboard upside down, and lightly tap it from the underside a few times, especially that portion near the shift, alt and ctrl keys. in that position, try also tapping those same keys. that should loosen some dirt or the keys themselves back into the proper position (normal is disengaged, or off).

it works for me. hope it works for you, too.

if trouble persists, consider buying a new keyboard.

HTH!

Try a new keyboard I had one break on me.