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38
Combinations and Functions with the Windows Key
Function keys The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to
perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, F1 is the
Help key. The task associated with each function key may vary from
one application to the next.
Escape key The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.
Print Screen key The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and
places it in the Windows Clipboard. You can then paste the screen
shot into a document and print it.
Operator keys Several keys are always used with at least one other key: Ctrl, Alt, and
Shift. When held down with another key, the Ctrl (Control) and Alt
(Alternate) keys offer another way to give commands. For example, in
many applications, instead of choosing the Save command from a
menu, you can hold down Ctrl and press S (referred to as Ctrl+S). The
Shift key operates the same way as on a typewriter; it is used to
produce capital letters or special symbols such as @ and $.
Windows key The key with the Windows logo displays the Windows Start menu; it is
the equivalent of clicking the Start button on the taskbar. See
“Combinations and Functions with the Windows Key” on page 38.
Fn key The Fn key is used in combination with other keys to issue
commands. See “Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key” on
page 40.
Applications key The Applications key displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive
choices. Pressing this key is the equivalent of clicking the right mouse
button.
Combination Function
+ F1 Displays Windows Help.
+ Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar.
+ E Displays Windows Explorer.
+ F Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find a file or folder.
This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then Files or Folders from
the Start menu.
+ Ctrl + F Displays the Windows Find: Computer window where you can locate
other computers. This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then
Computer from the Start menu.
Key Description
