Function keys

F1 F2 F3 …

The function keys are found at the top of the keyboard. They usually have two purposes:

• a software function (F1, F2, etc.) that depends on the current application
• a “hard-wired” effect such as controlling volume or brightness

The software function is like sending a control signal to the current application with a single keypress (that is, without needing a modifier key).

Some keyboards have a function lock (fn lock) that toggles the function keys’ behaviour between software or hard-wired.

You may also be able to use the function key _fn as a modifier key to choose the other behaviour.

Function keys can be used together with a modifier key.

Common Windows functions

Microsoft Windows has specific uses for the function keys. The actual action — if any — will depend on which application is running (has the focus) when you press the function key. These are some of the more useful conventions.