Introduction to the Computer Keyboard

Keyboards feature letters, numbers and symbols.

Becoming familiar with a computer keyboard may seem daunting to someone who has never used one before. The computer keyboard features letters, numbers and symbols that are used to write documents and simplify computing.

Layout

The computer keyboard is an essential hardware component. All computer keyboards follow the same basic layout, although some symbols and functions may vary slightly between manufacturers. Letters are arranged in the QWERTY style, first introduced in typewriters.

Features

The keyboard enables users to create documents that are then stored on the computer's hard drive. The function keys, F1 to F12, include shortcuts that speed up word processing. The F7 key, for example, is commonly used to check a document for spelling and grammar errors. The keyboard contains its own microprocessor and wall as memory to run the microprocessor.

Considerations

Some people learn to touch type, which involves typing without looking at the keyboard. Touch typing utilizes all the fingers, the middle finger being the home base. According to TypingTest.com, touch typing creates the illusion that the keyboard does not exist.

References

• PC Guide: Internal Keyboard Circuitry
• TypingTest: Touch Typing Uncovered:
• Computer Hope: Computer keyboard help and support