In Microsoft Edge, Narrator Scan Mode turns on automatically to let you move through webpages with the arrow keys. If it is off, press Narrator+Spacebar to turn it on. Use the Up and Down arrows to navigate; press Enter or Spacebar to activate the focused item.
How do I turn on Narrator scan mode in Microsoft Edge?
- Start Narrator if it is not running: press Windows logo key+Ctrl+Enter. This shortcut starts or stops Narrator.
- Open a webpage in Microsoft Edge. Scan Mode turns on automatically in Edge.
- If Scan Mode is off, toggle it on: press Narrator+Spacebar. Press the same shortcut to switch it off.
“Narrator” in a shortcut means the Narrator modifier key. Its defaults are Caps Lock or Insert; you can change the modifier in Narrator settings. Open those settings with Windows logo key+Ctrl+N. Microsoft’s instructions apply to Windows 11 and Windows 10; exact behavior is not established for every device or Windows build.
How do I navigate a webpage with Narrator?
With Scan Mode on, press the Up or Down arrow to move through content. When the item you want is focused, press Enter or Spacebar to activate it. This works for focused controls, links, and text boxes. Microsoft also documents commands for moving by headings, links, tables, and landmarks.
| Task | Command |
|---|---|
| Move through app or webpage content | Up or Down arrow |
| Activate the focused item | Enter or Spacebar |
| Perform a secondary action | Shift+Enter or Shift+Spacebar |
| Toggle Scan Mode | Narrator+Spacebar |
| Start or stop Narrator | Windows logo key+Ctrl+Enter |
| Open Narrator settings | Windows logo key+Ctrl+N |
Why does Narrator scan mode turn off when I type?
Scan Mode automatically turns off when focus enters an edit field so you can type normally. After typing, press the Up or Down arrow to leave the field and resume navigation. If you manually turn Scan Mode off for an app, Microsoft says it stays off for that app until you turn it on again.
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#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
What if Narrator pauses or seems to stop at punctuation?
Narrator may be stopping at punctuation according to its punctuation verbosity setting. To increase punctuation verbosity, press Narrator+Alt+Right bracket. To move to the previous punctuation-reading mode, press Narrator+Alt+Left bracket.
Where to check if a shortcut does not work
- Confirm Narrator is running; press Windows logo key+Ctrl+Enter to start or stop it.
- Check which modifier key is configured. Caps Lock and Insert are the defaults, but the modifier can be changed in Narrator settings.
- If Scan Mode was turned off for Edge, press Narrator+Spacebar to restore it.
Microsoft’s instructions are available in its Narrator keyboard commands and touch gestures guidance, Scan Mode instructions, and reading-text guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
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- 【Dreamy Rainbow Gaming Keyboard】K521 Gaming Keyboard Adopts a Different LED Backlight Design, Upgraded on the Traditional LED Backlight Effect, Making the Light More Penetrating, Giving You a More Dazzling Visual Effect, Making Your Gaming Process More Enjoyable
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- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
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