If you need to insert special characters in a document—for example, you're writing out an equation or typing in another language—Windows Alt codes make the process a whole lot easier.
Windows supports a range of special ... to the letters. You can also copy-paste accented characters directly from the web. Many websites such as TypeIt (try here) provide a virtual keyboard ...
If your keyboard keys stop working, it doesn't necessarily mean they're broken or need replacement. From checking keyboard ...