Underscore not working

It is now nearly two years since golfman8042’s post and the problem still exists. I am using the newest versions of macos and word on two different macs (Mac Mini M4 pro, M1 Macbook Pro 16”) and shift-dash still creates a dash on both systems. As with golfman, the problem exists only in Word for the Mac. All other apps have no such problem. When I really need an underscore, I open a new file in Notes, type an underscore, copy it and then paste it into the Word doc. Given the prevalent use of underscores in filenames, this is a frequent problem. Microsoft’s failure to address it is just ridiculous and evidences to me their persisting intention of maintaining superiority of Windows Word over Mac Word for purely economic reasons. Just fix the bug!! 

It is now nearly two years since golfman8042’s post and the problem still exists. I am using the newest versions of macos and word on two different macs (Mac Mini M4 pro, M1 Macbook Pro 16”) and shift-dash still creates a dash on both systems. As with golfman, the problem exists only in Word for the Mac. All other apps have no such problem. When I really need an underscore, I open a new file in Notes, type an underscore, copy it and then paste it into the Word doc. Given the prevalent use of underscores in filenames, this is a frequent problem. Microsoft’s failure to address it is just ridiculous and evidences to me their persisting intention of maintaining superiority of Windows Word over Mac Word for purely economic reasons. Just fix the bug!! 

Hi golfman8042,

It seems that you're having trouble with thekexboard  underscore key (shift + hyphen) not working properly in Microsoft Word on your Mac. You can to solve this issue with following steps:

1. Update Microsoft Word: Make sure you have the latest version of Microsoft Word installed on your Mac Air. Check for updates and install them if available. Updates often fix bugs and improve the software's performance.

2. Reset Keyboard Preferences: Go to "System Preferences" > "Keyboard" > "Keyboard" tab and click on "Restore Defaults" to reset your keyboard settings to the default configuration or the Option key could be disabled. Check System Preferences > Keyboard >Modifier keys > Option and change it from No action.

3. Check Language & Region Settings: Verify that your language and region settings are set correctly on your Mac Air. Incorrect settings can sometimes affect keyboard behavior. Go to "System Preferences" > "Language & Region" to double-check your preferred language and region.

4. Test in Safe Mode: Restart your Mac Air in Safe Mode to check if the underscore key works properly in Microsoft Word. Safe Mode starts your Mac with essential processes only, disabling any third-party extensions or plugins that could be causing conflicts.
   
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   Kindest regards
   
   Leon Pavesic