The first row of all keyboards contains the Function keys. labeled from F1 to F12. Most Windows PC users barely use these function keys as most do not know their uses. Knowing their uses and applications could make it easier for you to carry out tasks with your PC faster and easier.

As the name implies Function Keys or F Keys represent shortcuts with different functions assigned to each key that makes working on the computer easier.

Note that in some laptops, you have to hold down one additional button named “Fn” for you to use the Function keys.

So, let’s delve into knowing the function of these rarely-used keys

Uses Of Function Keys

F1 Key

The F1 key in almost every program is used for “Help”. If you are using windows OS and needed help anywhere working on any program, then press the F1 key, this will open up a help window for you.

Sometimes F1 key is used to enter the BIOS view of your computer when your computer is about to boot.

F2 Key

This is often used to rename a selected file or folder when working with your computer file explorer.

F3 Key

Used to open up the find/search box in file explorer or in a web browser.

Using Shift + F3 when working on Microsoft Word or most other word processors, toggles the case of the letters i.e upper to lower case or capital letters at the start of each word.

F4 Key

This opens the location/address bar in the file explorer and even in the web browser when pressed.

Holding down the control key with F4 (Ctrl + F4) – Closes the window or tab open in a present window of the active program.

Alt + F4 – Closes the program as a whole with all its opened windows or tabs.

F5 Key

Refreshes the present page (works in all advanced programs) either in a web browser, the file explorer, or even the desktop.

It can also be used to turn on the slideshow in MS PowerPoint

F6 Key

Move the cursor in the location bar (additionally works in numerous advanced programs).

Ctrl + Shift + F6 – opens Document in Microsoft Word

F7 Key

Mostly used for spelling and grammar in document programs Microsoft (Word, Outlook, etc.)

F8 Key

Pressing the F8 key while your PC is about to boot will result in booting your PC in Safe mode.

F9 Key

The F9 key does not have any functionality in Windows. It may, however, be used in some individual programs. To find out if it is available in the program you are using, bring up the program’s help screen and type in the words function key.

F10 Key

Activates “Menu” in the open organizer window.

Shift + F10 – works the same as the right mouse click.

Pressing F10 while your system is booting will show you BIOS Information.

F10 is used to enter the hidden recovery partition on computers Sony.

F11 Key

F11 Key will take you to Full-screen mode and it can be used and work in any web Browser.

F12 Key

Opens the “Save As” in Microsoft Word.

Shift + F12 – Saves a document in Microsoft Word.

Ctrl + Shift + F12 – Prints a document in Microsoft Word.

The F12 key will open up Inspect element box in any Browser.

If you know more uses of Function Keys, I’d be glad to see your Comment Below.