value:string You can type information and instructions into your computer using a keyboard.@ This is the main typing area of your keyboard. It resembles the keys on a standard typewriter.@ You press and release the keys, and the corresponding letters and numbers appear on the screen of your monitor.@ Another part of your keyboard is called the numeric keypad. Not all keyboards have a numeric keypad.@ You use it to enter numbers with one hand, as if you were using an adding machine.@ These keys are called function keys (F1, F2, F3). They're used to quickly perform specific tasks in your software applications.@ Your keyboard has other special keys that perform specific functions. For example, the escape key (ESC) can sometimes be used to interrupt a task.@ You can use the ALT key and the control key (CTRL) by themselves or in combination with other keys to perform keyboard shortcuts. @ Here's your chance to demonstrate what you've learned. Answer the following questions by pressing the appropriate number on your keyboard.@ Where is the main typing area of your keyboard?@ That's right! You've correctly selected the main typing area. It resembles the letter and number keys on a standard typewriter.@ This is the numeric keypad, which works like an adding machine. Next time, choose the main typing area.@ You've selected the function keys instead of the main typing area. You use the function keys to quickly perform specific tasks. Try again to select the main typing area.@ You've selected an area outside the keyboard. Try again to select the main typing area.@ The main typing area is the part of your keyboard that looks like typewriter keys.@ Which keys work like an adding machine?@ You've selected the main typing area instead of the numeric keypad. The main typing area is the part of your keyboard that looks like typewriter keys. Try again.@ That's right! You selected the numeric keypad, a set of keys that work like an adding machine.@ These are the function keys, which let you quickly perform specific tasks. Try again to select the numeric keypad.@ You've selected an area outside the keyboard. Try again to select the numeric keypad.@ You can use the numeric keypad to enter numbers the same way you would use an adding machine.@ Which keys let you perform shortcuts or other special functions?@ You've selected the main typing area instead of the function keys. The main typing area is the part of your keyboard that looks like typewriter keys. Try again.@ This is the numeric keypad, which works like an adding machine. Next time, choose the function keys.@ Correct! You would use the function keys to perform shortcuts and special functions.@ You've selected an area outside the keyboard. Try again to select the function keys.@ The function keys are used to perform shortcuts and other specific functions, depending on the software you're using.@ The more you work with your computer, the more comfortable you’ll become using the different keys on your keyboard.@ In the next lesson, Using Your Mouse, you'll learn another way to give your computer instructions.@ Press LEFT ARROW to go back; RIGHT ARROW to continue.