Some common special keys and symbols on a computer keyboard, along with their typical uses:
1. Function Keys (F1-F12):
- F1: Opens Help in most applications.
- F2: Renames files and folders.
- F3: Opens search functionality in many programs.
- F4: Repeats the last action in some programs.
- F5: Refreshes the current window or webpage.
- F6: Moves cursor to the address bar in browsers.
- F7: Spell check and grammar check in some programs.
- F8: Accesses Windows Safe Mode during startup.
- F9: Sends and receives emails in some email clients.
- F10: Activates the menu bar in many programs.
- F11: Toggles full-screen mode in browsers.
- F12: Opens the Save As dialog box in many programs.
2. Control Keys:
- Ctrl: Used in combination with other keys for various shortcuts and actions.
- Alt: Also used with other keys for shortcuts and menu access.
- Shift: Modifies the behavior of other keys, often for capital letters or special symbols.
- Windows (or Command on Macs): Opens the Start menu or performs system-level actions.
3. Navigation Keys:
- Arrow keys: Move the cursor up, down, left, and right.
- Home: Moves the cursor to the beginning of a line or document.
- End: Moves the cursor to the end of a line or document.
- Page Up/Page Down: Scrolls up or down a page at a time.
- Tab: Moves the cursor to the next tab stop or field.
- Backspace: Deletes the character to the left of the cursor.
- Delete: Deletes the character to the right of the cursor.
- Insert: Toggles between insert and overwrite modes for text entry.
4. Modifier Keys:
- Esc: Often used to cancel operations or close dialog boxes.
- Caps Lock: Toggles capital letters on and off.
- Num Lock: Toggles the numeric keypad on and off.
- Scroll Lock: Toggles scrolling behavior in some programs (less common).
5. Symbols and Punctuation:
- Symbols above numbers: Accessed by holding Shift and pressing the number key.
- Punctuation marks: Found on the main keyboard layout.
- Other symbols: Accessed through various methods, such as character maps or Alt codes.