Ubuntu – US Intl keyboard layout without dead keys

Apparently setting the keyboard layout you wish to use when logging in solves this problem.

When logging in, as you are about to enter your password in GDM, there is a discreet menu option on the toolbar at the bottom.

Changing the setting here will cause Ubuntu to use the correct keyboard setting not just for that session but for subsequent log ins.

I personally use the English (International AltGr dead keys) layout on an english keyboard. I type mostly stuff in english but also need accents and special characters for spanish, and occasionally some french. I've found this layout the best, really versatile for most accented character needs and saves me from constantly switching layouts which I consider very distracting :

• All keys work as marked on the keyboard
• When you need a special character, press AltGr (right Alt key) in combination with a letter or symbol. For instance, AltGr+vowel = accented vowel (áéíóú). AltGr+n = ñ.
• You can "compose" by pressing, for instance, AltGr+6 and a vowel (circumflex, like ê), or AltGr+` and a vowel (grave accent, è), or AltGr+" and a vowel for diaeresis (ü).
• AltGr+! = ¡ and AltGr+? = ¿
• Many more useful mappings, here's a full keyboard map:
• You can get this keyboard map on your computer, go to Keyboard Layouts, select a layout, and click on the little keyboard icon (last icon on the right, below the layouts list). This will help you get acquainted with the layout.

Getting used to pressing two keys for accented letters is a bit strange, but it's doable (took me about a week to get up to speed).