Special Keys
Not every key on the keyboard types a letter. Some keys give the computer special instructions. These keys save time and make the computer easier to use.
🔑 Important Special Keys
| Key | Symbol | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Enter | ↵ | Confirms an action or starts a new line |
| Backspace | ⌫ | Deletes the letter to the LEFT of the cursor |
| Delete | Del | Deletes the letter to the RIGHT of the cursor |
| Shift | ⇧ | Types capital letters or upper symbols |
| Caps Lock | ⇪ | Locks ALL letters into capitals |
| Tab | ⇥ | Moves text right or jumps between fields |
| Space Bar | ⎵ | Adds a space between words |
| Escape (Esc) | Esc | Cancels or closes a menu |
| Ctrl | ^ | Used with other keys as a shortcut |
Shift vs Caps Lock
Both Shift and Caps Lock make capital letters, but they work differently. Shift works only while you hold it down. Caps Lock stays on until you press it again.
⬆️ Shift vs Caps Lock
⇧
SHIFT
Hold it to type ONE capital, then release.
Good for: One capital at a time
⇪
CAPS LOCK
Press once — ALL letters stay capital until pressed again.
Good for: Many capitals in a row
Useful Ctrl Shortcuts
| Shortcut | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + C | Copy |
| Ctrl + V | Paste |
| Ctrl + Z | Undo (fix a mistake) |
| Ctrl + S | Save the current file |
| Ctrl + A | Select all |
Example: The Esc key works like saying "never mind" in real life. When someone asks you a question and you change your mind, you say never mind. The Esc key tells the computer the same thing — cancel that last action.
✏️ Exercise
| # | Question |
|---|---|
| 1 | Which key deletes the letter on the LEFT of the cursor? |
| 2 | What does Ctrl + Z do? |
| 3 | Which key cancels a menu? |
| 4 | What is the difference between Shift and Caps Lock? |
| 1. | Backspace |
| 2. | It undoes the last action (fixes a mistake) |
| 3. | Escape (Esc) |
| 4. | Shift makes one capital while held; Caps Lock keeps all capitals on until pressed again |
Quick Review
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Which key starts a new line? | Enter |
| What does Ctrl + S do? | Saves the current file |
| Which key is used for shortcuts? | Ctrl |