Left shift key sometimes does not work, right shift key does not work

[Docferg]

I have a dell 1200 Inspiron, if I do windows for writing and shift keys work for caps. 'when not in a word format the right shift key will not work for caps,
I am wondering if it is a driver problem with the key board? Doc Ferguson

[Alan]

The first thing to do is check the keyboard language in the Control panel. Make sure it is set for your language/keyboard.

If you dont know how to do that, then:
In Win XP, to change the keyboard languages and layout, click the Start button, then choose Settings, Control Panel, and Regional and Language Options. Click the 'Languages' tab and then the 'Details' button.
Post back with your results then we can take it further if needed.