Description: This article contains some of the most frequently asked questions about computer keyboard function keys from Summer 2019.

Q: What are Function Keys?
A: Function Keys are the keys located on the top row of a keyboard that are designed to do specific things on the computer.

Q: What do Function Keys look like?
A: Function Keys will have various icons and pictures on them, and also will typically be labeled as F1 through F12. In writing, they may be described enclosed in brackets as <F1> through <F12>.

Q: How do I use the function keys?
A: There is an Fn or F Lock on keyboards that can be toggled on and off. On a laptop you may need to press and hold to engage this key. Desktop keyboards usually have the F Lock on or off key that you don't have to hold. When the Fn key is pressed or toggled on, press the F1 through F12 key that corresponds to the action you are trying to perform.

Q: What do the pictures mean on the function keys?
A: The pictures indicate the function that key will control when activated. Common pictures include but are not limited to:

• an antenna or an airplane represents wireless functionality
• pictures of the sun represent screen brightness
• pictures of a speaker represent volume control
• a do not enter symbol (circle with line or an X) represents mute for sound
• minus sign represents lowering the volume
• plus sign represents increasing the volume
• a moon icon represents sleep mode
• a touchpad icon represents toggling the touchpad on and off
• a keyboard, or three boxes with dash marks, represent backlight settings
• many function keys will also have a word on them that, when properly toggled, perform that function

Q: What if I don’t want to hold the Fn key to activate these functions?
A: Sometimes there is an option in BIOS, or in software installed on the computer, to allow changing the Fn dn Function Key settings.

Q: Why does my computer not have all the pictures?
A: Not every function is available or relevant for every system. The manufacturer determines which options are needed for the computer - most manufacturer manuals will explain any unique variations to their function keys.

Q: What if a program requires one of the F keys? Can I stop it from performing the function its tied to?
A: Yes, however this is determined by the holding or toggling of the Fn or F Lock key on that computer.

Q: What if I have a picture I don’t recognize?
A: Information will normally be listed in the manufacturer manual or accessed on the manufacturer website. In a controlled situation, it probably doesn’t hurt to press a function key to see what it does, as these options are usually on or off or enable or disable options, and can be easily reversed by simply pressing the key a second time.