What the F-key? F9 through F12

Our final exploration into function keys might surprise some of you out there. There's really not a whole lot of “functionality” at the end of the row, but let's look anyways.

Just to refresh:

Function keys are pretty versatile, but some only have purpose specific to the program that's running at the time. They're mainly used as shortcuts or in conjunction with the CTRL, ALT, and Shift keys. We'll talk about that soon.

For now, here are the basics of function keys F9 – F12.

F9 – Another program-specific function key, I just call it “lazy”, though... Well, if you're using MS Word the F9 key will update the selected field, so that's one thing it can do!

F10 – This key is used to access the Menu Bar in programs (File, Edit, View, Etc.). Good for zapping up there if you need to access some of the menu functions.

F11 – Is used in Internet Explorer to toggle the full screen view, also known as “KIOSK” mode.

F12 – Another “lazy” key, although some individual programs may have functions assigned to it. In MS Word this can be used as the “Save As” command.

And there you have it! I feel pretty functional, personally, but next time around we'll extend the use of the F-keys to include the ALT, CTRL and Shift commands!
Woo! Exciting! :)

~Andrew

Want to comment on this tip? Click here! We'd love to hear from you!

Suggestions from our readers!

Note: Reader suggestions may not have been tested by the Worldstart staff. Use at your own discretion

Like these tips? Get them for FREE in your email!

Computer Tips with MS Office Tips Newsletter

• Computer Tips Daily - Run your Windows PC like a pro! No matter what your skill level, beginner or advanced, you'll find tons of valuable tips, tricks, and ideas in every issue (plus great software deals). Become the computer guru you've always wanted to be! The tip you've just read was in this newsletter!
  
  
• Computer Tips Weekly - If you don't want our Computer Tips newsletter every day, then sign up for this weekly newsletter to get the best information of the week. Sent on Fridays.

Other Newsletters

• Software Deals - Every week, we send out great deals in our Software Deals newsletter. Many of these deals are exclusively for our Software Deals newsletter subscribers and can't be found with our regular specials.
  
  
• Just For Grins - Each issue includes a couple clean jokes, some funny quotes, and a hilarious reader's story. Newsletter is sent five days a week.
  
  

Enter Email Address:

Your e-mail address is safe with us!
We only use it to send you the newsletters you request. It is NEVER disclosed to a third party for any reason, ever! Plus, if you decided you don't like our newsletters (don't worry, you'll love them), unsubscribing is fast and easy.