In Windows, how can I access extended keyboard characters, such as accent marks?

Note: For a graphical layout of all possible extended keyboard characters, open the Windows Character Map. To access it, from the Start menu, select Programs, then Accessories. Click the System Tools folder to open the character map.

Most text editors and word processors allow you to type special symbols that do not appear on the keyboard, including foreign language characters and accents.

To access these, use the numeric keypad on the right side of your keyboard. Make sure the NumLock key is on, and then hold the Alt key. While holding Alt, use the numeric keypad to type one of the three-digit numbers listed below. When you are done typing, release the Alt key, and the associated extended character will appear.

Comments/Questions/Corrections