Keyboard
The set of typewriter-like keys that enables you to enter data into a computer. Computer keyboards are similar to electric-typewriter keyboards but contain additional keys. The keys on computer keyboards are often classified as follows:
- alphanumeric keys - letters and numbers
- punctuation keys - comma, period, semicolon, etc.
- special keys - function keys, control keys, arrow keys, Enter key, Caps Lock key, etc.
The standard layout of letters, numbers, and punctuation is known as a
QWERTY keyboard because the first six keys on the top row of letters spell QWERTY. The QWERTY keyboard was designed in the 1800s for mechanical typewriters and was actually designed to slow typists down to avoid jamming the keys.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Combinations of keys used on the keyboard that are quicker to type than using the mouse to select the equivalent function from a drop down menu in a program. E.g., in Internet Explorer, the F5 function key performs the function of "refresh". See Microsoft Keyboard Shortcuts
