The F-keys, also known as function keys, are a set of keys located at the top row of a computer keyboard. These keys are labeled from F1 to F12 and have specific functions assigned to them by the operating system or the application you are using.
1. F1: The F1 key is commonly used as a “help” key. When pressed, it usually opens a help window or provides context-sensitive help for the current program or operating system.
2. F2: The F2 key often serves as a shortcut for renaming files or folders. For example, if you select a file and press F2, you can quickly change its name without needing to right-click and choose the rename option.
3. F3: In many applications and operating systems, pressing F3 triggers a search function. It opens a search box or dialog where you can enter keywords to search for specific content within a document, folder, or system.
4. F4: The F4 key has different functions depending on the context. In some programs, it can be used to repeat the last action performed. In Windows, pressing Alt+F4 closes the currently active window or program.
5. F5: F5 is commonly used to refresh or reload a webpage or document. When pressed in a web browser, it reloads the current page, ensuring you have the latest content. In some applications, like Microsoft Excel, F5 opens the “Go To” dialog box.
6. F6: The F6 key is often utilized to navigate within a program or application. In web browsers, it moves the cursor to the address bar, allowing you to type a new URL. In some word processors, it can switch between different panes or sections of the document.
7. F7: F7 is primarily used for checking spelling and grammar in many word processing programs. It opens a spell-checking tool that highlights errors and provides suggestions for corrections.
8. F8: The F8 key has various functions depending on the context. In older versions of Windows, pressing F8 during startup enters the advanced boot options menu, allowing you to troubleshoot or start the computer in safe mode. In modern systems, F8 is often used in combination with other keys for specific functions, such as screen brightness control.
9. F9: The F9 key doesn’t have a standard function in most programs or operating systems. It is often left unassigned by default and can be customized by users or specific applications to perform specific tasks.
10. F10: F10 is commonly used to activate the menu bar in many applications. It highlights the menu options, allowing you to navigate through different menus using the arrow keys. In some programs, it can also be used to access the hidden recovery or boot menu during startup.
11. F11: F11 is frequently used to toggle between full-screen mode and normal mode in web browsers. When pressed, it expands the browser window to occupy the entire screen, providing a distraction-free browsing experience. Pressing F11 again restores the window to its original size.
12. F12: The F12 key often opens the “Save As” dialog in many applications. It allows you to save a document, image, or file with a new name or in a different location. In web browsers, pressing F12 opens the developer tools, which are used for web development and debugging.
It’s important to note that the functionality of the F-keys can vary depending on the operating system, software, or specific keyboard settings. Some programs may assign different functions to these keys, or they may not have any predefined function at all.