Check your iPad model supports external keyboards (most iPads do)
Turn on Bluetooth or use a wired connection (either is fine)
For Bluetooth: enable Bluetooth on the iPad (Settings > Bluetooth > On)
Put the keyboard in pairing mode
On the iPad, select the keyboard from the Bluetooth devices list
If prompted, enter the pairing code on the iPad or keyboard and confirm
Wait for “Connected” to appear, then test typing
For a wired keyboard (USB-C iPad models): connect a USB keyboard using the correct adapter if needed (USB-C to USB adapter)
For a wired keyboard (Lightning iPad models): connect a USB keyboard using a Lightning-to-USB adapter
Plug the keyboard in, then start typing
If the keyboard doesn’t work: restart the iPad and re-pair or re-seat the connection
Adjust keyboard settings if needed (Settings > General > Keyboard)