Basic Computer Keyboard Functions

Keyboards are commonplace in today's society. Keyboards are used so that the user can use the computer to make some aspect of their lives more convenient. The keyboard does differ from a standard typewriter layout and the keys are typically more sensitive than a typewriter. There are extra keys in place that have different functions such as manipulating data or navigating the Internet.

Caps Lock

The caps lock key is located on the left side of the keyboard right next to the "a" key. When this button is pressed, it makes every letter you type after that, appear in all capital letters like this: THIS IS AN EXAMPLE OF THE CAPS LOCK FUNCTION. It has no effect when typing numbers. They still will appear the same.

FN Key

The'"fn" key is usually located at the bottom left of the keyboard but sometimes appears on the upper right hand side of the keyboard depending on the model. It usually has a white square around it or the letters may appear in a different color. Pressing and holding this key, while pressing another key that has either a corresponding white square on it or is the same color as the "fn" key, makes the computer do what is in the white square or in a different color. With some keyboards, this means being able to control the volume of the speakers or controlling the brightness of the screen all right from the keyboard.

Windows Symbol

On computers that have Microsoft Windows as an operating system, you may find the Windows symbol key on the bottom of the keyboard usually left in the bottom row. The key is marked with a symbol of four wavy squares and nothing else. Pressing this key will make the start menu appear, allowing you to having a starting place to navigate the computer's programs from when desired.

Arrow Keys

The arrow keys are usually located on the bottom right hand side of the keyboard. They allow the user to navigate one line up, down, or side to side in any given screen they may be working with. In a word processing program, it moves the cursor to a different place in the document corresponding with the arrow that was pressed. On the Internet, usually the up and down keys are only used to go up or down on the page.

F Keys

The very top of the keyboard is outlined with 12 keys numbered 1 to 12 with the letter "F" in front of the number. Each key will behave differently based on the program you are working with. Pressing "F1" will typically provide the user with a help menu for the given program they are working on. In the search box of the help menu simply type in 'f keys' and it will show you the results of what each 'f' key will do in that program. Many of these keys allow the user to navigate the computer without the use of a mouse.

References

• OSHA
• Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium

Resources

• Free Online Typing Evaluations & Practice