How to fix laptop keys

Sometimes the buttons on laptop keyboards will become responsive and require pressing straight on or very hard to register a click.
In some cases, it's enough to put a small piece of paper under the button in order to remedy the problem. Follow these easy steps to do it yourself and save you in upwards of $40.

Step 1: Remove the key

In order to remove the key, you need to lift the front of it with a tool. When nothing that won't scratch the keyboard is handy, I find it easy to use my fingernails.

You might need to use some force but it should come loose. 

Step 2: Cut paper into squares
 

Ideally, you want to use paper with adhesive backing like post-it notes or flag (or knock-offs). That's not to say that you couldn't use whatever shim you have handy but it's easier to do if the pieces of paper are stuck to the key.

Step 3: placing paper squares on the underside of button

place the squares you just cut up on the underside of the key. You might need to experiment with the size and thickness of the stack of squares. Too many and the key will become too sensitive, too few and it might not work. 

Step 4: replace key

In order to replace the key, you need to first push it down at the back like so:

Then, you simply push it down and it should seat properly. It might take you a few tries to get it right the first time.