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Learning the Basics

Using the keyboard

Character keys
Typing with the character keys is very much like typing on a
typewriter, except that:
❖The space bar creates a space character instead of just passing
over an area of the page.
❖The lowercase letter l (el) and the number 1 are not
interchangeable.
❖The uppercase letter O and the number 0 are not
interchangeable.
Function keys
The function keys (not to be confused with the Fn key) are the 12
keys at the top of the keyboard.

(Sample Illustration) Function keys
F1 through F12 are called function keys because they execute
programmed functions when pressed. Function keys marked with
icons execute specific functions on the computer. For example,
F5 turns the touch pad ON/OFF. For more information, see “Hot key
functions” on page 165.
Special Windows® keys
(Sample Illustration) Special Windows® keys
Your computer’s keyboard has one key and one button that have
special functions in Windows®:
❖Windows® key—Opens the Start menu
❖Application key—Has a similar function as the secondary
mouse button
Application key
Windows® key