Keyboard

A keyboard is an input that allows you to input letters, numbers, and symbols into a computer. It also has special keys called "modifier keys" such as Shift, Control (or ctrl), Alternate (or alt), Function (fn), Command (z) or Apple ().  These keys do not produce letters or symbols when you push them.  Rather, they change what happens when you push other keys at the same time.

• The Shift key changes lowercase letter keys to capital letter keys, and changes number keys to symbol keys.  For example, pressing the A key gives "a," but pressing shift and A gives "A."
• On a Windows computer (Dell, HP, Toshiba, Sony), the Control key, in combination with another key, can perform an action, similar to the "function keys" below.  For example, pushing Control and s at the same time will save your current work on the computer.  Control and p will print the current page.
• On an Apple computer, the Control key is not used often.
• The alt or option keys change both letters and numbers to other characters.  For example, pressing option and s gives "ß," or option and t gives "†."
• The fn key is not used often.

Keyboards also have "function keys," which are usually in the row above the number keys.  Function keys are labeled F1 through F12, and when you push them, they have the computer perform a certain action (other than typing a letter).  Finally, the Escape key (esc) can do different things depending on the particular computer and keyboard.


Example

The Apple Keyboard

Notice the shift, fn, control, alt/option, and command "modifier" keys in the lower-left corner.  Also notice the "function" keys on the top row, some of which are labeled with their intended "actions," or functions.


Tomorrow: Mouse and Trackpad