68 Learning the Basics

Using the keyboard

Use Error-checking and Disk Defragmenter regularly to check
and optimize disk space and improve performance.
Scan all new files for viruses.
This precaution is especially important for files you receive via
external media, email, or download from the Internet.
Take frequent breaks to avoid repetitive-motion injuries and
eyestrain.
Do not turn off the computer if a drive indicator light indicates
a drive is active.
Turning off the computer while it is reading from or writing to
a disk may damage the disk, the drive, or both.
The Windows® operating system records information, such as your
desktop setup, during its shutdown procedure. If you do not let the
Windows® operating system shut down normally, details such as
new icon positions may be lost.
Using the keyboard
Your computer’s keyboard contains character keys, control keys,
function keys, and special Windows® keys.

(Sample Illustration) 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.
NOTE