What are the functions of the F1 to F12 keys on PC keyboards?

Although many people spend time in front of the computer, there are several functions that are not explored by its users.

Among these functions are those related to the F1 to F12 keys on your keyboard, created to shorten commands that may be useful during everyday life.

According to her own Microsoft, creator of Windows, the most used operating system on PCs in the world, the keys are used to perform functions quickly.

Therefore, they are called “function keys”. This, in itself, already serves to demystify the meaning of the letter F before each of the buttons.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, depending on the brand of your peripheral (keyboard), the F1 to F12 keys can perform different functions.

Also, for those using Apple's Mac, the functionalities of these commands vary. Without further ado, let's look at the functions that can be performed from these keys.

Keys F1 to F12 and their functions in Windows

Keep in mind, before you start testing the F1 to F12 keys, that some of them only work when pressed together with another button, such as F9 and F12. See below:

• F1: Used to open the help center of the program that is currently being used;
• F2: Renames folders, files and icons;
• F3: Opens the search tab for the running program;
• F4: Opens the address bar in File Explorer. Furthermore, when used together with Alt, this key is used to close running programs;
• F5: Updates pages opened in browsers or the PC desktop itself;
• F6: Activates the address bar in the browser;
• F7: Triggers spell checking in text editors;
• F8: Holding down the key while turning on the computer starts Windows in safe mode;
• F9: Ctrl + F9 inserts a new text field in Word;
• F10: In some programs, such as Microsoft Edge, the key activates the address bar or the settings bar;
• F11: Activates full screen mode;
• F12: Use the key together with Ctrl and Shift to save files in programs such as Word.

Function Keys on Mac

Below are the uses of the F1 to F12 keys on the computer Apple. It is worth remembering that, if the functionality of a key is not described, it has the same function as that mentioned previously.

• F1: Key used to decrease screen brightness;
• F2: Increases screen brightness;
• F3: Used to view all open windows;
• F4: Opens Launchpad, displaying all applications on the computer;
• F5: Reduces keyboard brightness;
• F6: Increases keyboard brightness;
• F10: Deactivates the sound;
• F11: Alone, reduces sound and. By pressing the “FN” (Function) key, it is possible to minimize all windows and view only the desktop;
• F12: Increases computer sound.