Important: If your iPod is frozen or won't turn on, it may be because iPod is paused or the Hold switch is in the locked position. If so, a lock symbol appears on the screen. Slide the Hold switch to the unlocked position and check the screen.
If the iPod displays shows any of the following messages you should eject the iPod from within iTunes instead of resetting it:
Connected. Eject before disconnecting
Sync in Progress. Please wait...
Do not disconnect
If your iPod is frozen or won't turn on, the steps to reset it vary by model. You can click here to see how you can easily tell which model you have.