The primary device used to input data into a computer. Keyboards have been around as nearly as long as computers have. Keyboards are set out in the same way as a type writers with the exception of a few computer specific function keys. Keyboards have now been designed in a variety of different shapes and sizes to help alleviate stress on wrists and fingers. Major companies who manufacture the best keyboards are Microsoft and Logitech.

• Functions of Keyboard Keys
  • ALT key - alternate key, , used in combination with other keys.
  • Arrows keys - moving the cursor or insertion point right, left, up, or down.
  • Backspace key - moves the cursor or insertion point backward one character space.
  • Caps Lock key - makes alphabetic characters to be uppercase.
  • Control key - labelled Ctrl., used in combination with other keys.
  • Delete key - labeled del., deletes characters and objects on the screen.
  • End key - usually used in word processing applications to go to the end of the page.
  • Enter key - executes a command or program and moves cursor to the beginning of the next line.
  • Escape key - cancel and aborts commands and programs.
  • F keys e.g., F1 - function keys, what they do depends on the software application used.
  • Home key - moves cursor to the beginning of a file.
  • Insert key - used in conjunction with word processors and text editors.
  • Num Lock key - switches the numeric keypad from numeric mode to cursor control mode.
  • Numeric keypad - functions depend on if it's on numeric mode or cursor control mode.
  • Option key - produces special characters.
  • Page Up and Down - goes to the top or the bottom of the screen.
  • Pause key - can halt display of data.
  • Print Screen key - takes a screen shot.
  • Return key - moves cursor to the beginning of the next line.
  • Scroll Lock key - controls functions of cursor control keys for some programs.
  • Shift key - produces capital letter when pressed with a alphabetic key.
  • Tab key - can move cursor to next field on online forms and the next indentation on word processors.