door locks, 1993 toyota camry

vehicle: 1993 toyota camry my driver's door wont unlock, its jammed. this is how i open my driver's door side: insert the key into the key hole i turn the key clockwise with my right hand and pull the door handle with my left. and when i twist the key the door lock does not move ( i sort of got to "jimmy" it). & this is how i get out of my driver's side: i pull the door lock to the left with my thumb and i pull the door handle with my right (inside the car). the door lock switch works only if i have the key in the ignition (turned to ON); but they do work when i take out the key out from the ignition for a few minutes. also when ever i try to roll up my driver's window, i have to pull up hard to make roll it up. my friend tested out the switches (power window switches) with a electric light meter, they tested good. he said i might need to replace the Actuator on the driver's side. i found a metal piece in the the door. i think its from the Actuator. its been a pain opening my door and getting out of my car. i know this is a lot to read but please bare with you. im open to any questions and troubleshooting. thank you for your time.

It's probably the linkage from the handle to the lock itself. If you remove the trim panel, reconnect the door switch panel for locks and windows, then throw the catch on the door, move the switch to lock and unlock, that will tell you if the actuator's working, if so, it's the handle linkage.

what is the trim panel? that is the metal part/frame right? because i think that is the only way to get through where the actuator's location. and what do you you mean by "throw the catch on the door"?

Door panel is the inner trim, removing it will allow you to watch the action. Latching is the object on the meeting edge of the door lock. Some cars won't lock, mainly European cars as a safety measure, though I don't think it applies to yours.

oh you meant "latch". so right when i remove the inner trim i will be able to see the problem? something came loose? i didnt have time to do it today and it dark right now. i will troubleshoot tomorrow. thanks.