Last Updated on
June 1, 2023
Written by
Tech Assistant for blind Team
The keyboard is an essential tool for using a computer, and most people use it regularly. However, many people don’t know about the function keys that are present on the top row of the keyboard. These keys, labeled F1 through F12, can be used to perform various functions and actions within the Windows operating system. In this article, we’ll discuss the use of the F1 to F12 keys on a Windows keyboard.
F1: Help
The F1 key is used to access the help files and documentation for the current application. If you’re stuck or confused about a feature, pressing F1 will often bring up the relevant help files.
F2: Rename
The F2 key is used to rename a file or folder in Windows. To use this function, simply select the file or folder you want to rename and press F2. You can then type in the new name for the file or folder.
F3: Search
The F3 key is used to open the search dialog box in Windows. This allows you to search for files, folders, or programs on your computer.
F4: Address Bar
The F4 key is used to open the address bar in Windows Explorer. This allows you to quickly navigate to a specific folder or location on your computer.
F5: Refresh
The F5 key is used to refresh the current window in Windows. This is useful if you’re viewing a folder or webpage and want to see the most up-to-date version.
F6: Cycle Through parts of a Window
The F6 key is used to cycle through different parts of a single window or pane. In many programs and applications, including web browsers and Microsoft Office applications, These parts can include the menu bar, the work area, the address bar, and other elements depending on the specific program.
For example:
- In web browsers such as Google Chrome and Firefox, pressing F6 will cycle through the address bar, the tabs, and the content area of the browser window.
- In Microsoft Word, pressing F6 will cycle through the ribbon, the status bar, and the document area of the program window.
- In Windows Explorer, pressing F6 will cycle through the address bar, the toolbar, and the file list area of the program window.
F7: Spell Check
The F7 key is used to initiate the spell check function in programs like Microsoft Word. This can be helpful for ensuring that your written documents are free of spelling errors.
F8: Safe Mode
The F8 key is used to access Safe Mode during the boot process. This allows you to troubleshoot and repair your computer if it’s experiencing problems.
F9: Refresh Fields
The F9 key is used to refresh fields in Microsoft Word. This is useful if you’re working with fields that contain dynamic data, such as the date or time.
In addition to refreshing fields in Microsoft Word, the F9 key has some other uses in different programs and applications. like:
- Refreshing a PivotTable in Excel: If you have a PivotTable in Microsoft Excel, pressing F9 will refresh the data in the table to reflect any changes or updates.
F10: Menu Bar
The F10 key is used to access the menu bar in Windows. This can be helpful for navigating and using different features and functions within a program or application.
F11: Full Screen
The F11 key is used to toggle full-screen mode on and off in many web browsers. This allows you to view web content without any distractions or toolbars in the way.
F12: Save As
The F12 key is used to access the “Save As” function in many programs and applications. This allows you to save a copy of the current file with a new name or in a different location.
Overall, the function keys on a Windows keyboard can be very helpful for performing a variety of tasks and functions within the operating system and different programs and applications. While some of these keys may not be used frequently, knowing how to use them can save time and improve productivity.
