Parts of a Keyboard
A keyboard is split into groups of keys that each do one kind of job: typing keys, function keys, modifier keys, navigation keys, arrow keys and (on bigger keyboards) a number pad.
Every group has its own job. The letter keys are where the typing magic happens!
LettersNumber rowTyping helpersModifiersFunction keysNavigationArrowsNumber pad
The main parts
1. Letter keys (alphabetic keys)
The 26 letters in the middle, plus punctuation like , . ; and /. They are arranged in the QWERTY layout. The middle row is the home row, where your fingers rest. See home row keys.
2. Number row
1 to 0 across the top of the letters. Hold Shift to type the symbols on top, like ! @ # and $. Learn every symbol in Keyboard Characters and Meanings.
3. Typing helper keys
Space bar, Enter, Backspace and Tab add spaces, new lines and indents, or erase mistakes.
4. Modifier keys
Shift, Ctrl, Alt, the Windows key (or Command on a Mac), Fn and Caps Lock. They change what other keys do, like making capitals or shortcuts.
5. Function keys
Esc and F1 to F12 along the top. They are shortcuts, and on laptops they often control volume and brightness too.
6. Navigation and editing keys
Home, End, Page Up and Page Down, Insert, Delete and Print Screen move around documents and pages.
7. Arrow keys
Four arrow keys in an upside-down T move the cursor and steer games.
8. Number pad (numeric keypad)
A calculator-style block on the right of full-size keyboards, controlled by Num Lock. Great for entering lots of numbers fast.
Parts you cannot see
Under the keycaps, each key presses a switch. Laptops usually use thin "scissor" switches; many desktop keyboards use rubber domes, and gaming keyboards often use mechanical switches with springs. A tiny computer inside the keyboard (a controller) notices which switch closed and sends a code to the computer, which turns it into a letter on the screen.
Fun fact
The little bumps on the F and J keys are part of the keyboard too. They help you find the home row without looking.
FAQ
What are the main parts of a keyboard?
Letter keys, the number row, function keys, modifier keys, navigation keys, arrow keys and, on full-size keyboards, a number pad.
What are modifier keys?
Keys like Shift, Ctrl, Alt, Command and Fn that change what another key does when you hold them together.
What is the home row?
The middle row of letters (A S D F G H J K L ;) where your fingers rest when you touch type.