What is a special key?

Welcome Delta Sigma Pi

  • Accessibility
  • Sales:

    Home:

    1-800-426-7235

    Business:

    1-866-426-0911

    Chat Now >

    Visit Sales Support Page >


    Order Support:

    Order Lookup >

    Visit Order Support Page >

    Technical Support >

Lenovo
All
  • All
  • Laptops
  • Desktops
  • Workstations
  • Monitors
  • PC Accessories & Electronics
  • Tablets
  • Servers & Storage
  • Servers Accessories
  • Sign In / Create Account
    My Lenovo Account
    Keep track of your wishlist, orders, and rewards all in one place
    Sign In / Create Account
    Welcome Back!
    Access your order, subscriptions, saved carts, rewards balance, and profile
    View My Account
    Orders
    View & track your orders
    Rewards
    Earn & redeem Rewards
    Profile
    Edit name, password, and account settings
    Wishlist
    Manage a wishlist of your favorite products
    Products
    Manage your devices, accessories
    Product Registration
    Register your product and/or update your warranty dates
    Sign Out
  • My Lenovo Rewards
  • Cart
  • Products
  • Solutions
  • Services
  • Support
  • About Lenovo
  • Deals
  • Student
  • Gaming
  • Laptops
  • Desktops
  • Workstations
  • Accessories
  • Software
  • Monitors
  • Tablets
  • Servers & Storage
  • Home & Office
  • AI
  • Deals
TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE
DISCONTINUED
Temporary Unavailable
Cooming Soon!
. Additional units will be charged at the non-eCoupon price. Purchase additional now
We're sorry, the maximum quantity you are able to buy at this amazing eCoupon price is
Sign in or Create an Account to Save Your Cart!
Sign in or Create an Account to Join Rewards
View Cart
Remove
Your cart is empty! Don’t miss out on the latest products and savings — find your next favorite laptop, PC, or accessory today.
item(s) in cart
Some items in your cart are no longer available. Please visit cart for more details.
has been deleted
Please review your cart as items have changed.
of
Contains Add-ons
Subtotal
Proceed to Checkout
Yes
No
Popular Searches
What are you looking for today ?
Trending
Recent Searches
Items
All
Cancel
Top Suggestions
View All >
Starting at
  • Back to School! Gear up for the year ahead with these limited-time doorbusters.  Shop Now >

  • My Lenovo Rewards! Enter for a chance to win a Legion 5 Gen 10, mouse, backpack & earbuds! One winner. Ends 8/24. Join for Free >

  • Buy online, pick up select products at Best Buy. Shop Pick Up >

  • Lease-to-own today with Katapult. Get started with an initial lease payment as low as $1! * Learn More >

Home > Glossary > What is a special key?
Glossary Hero
Learn More
StarStar

Annual Sale

Lenovo Laptop SaleLenovo Laptop Sale

Laptop Deals

Desktop DealsDesktop Deals

Desktop Deals

Workstation DealsWorkstation Deals

Workstation Deals

StoreStore

Pick Up Today at Best Buy

ControllerController

Gaming PC & Accessory Deals

MouseMouse

PC Accessories & Electronics Deals

MonitorMonitor

Monitor Deals

Tablet and phoneTablet and phone

Tablets & Phones Deals

ServerServer

Server & Storage Deals

Discount tagDiscount tag

Clearance Sale


What is a special key?

A special key, in the context of computing and technology, refers to a keyboard key that performs a specific function beyond the standard alphanumeric input. Examples of these include keys like Control (Ctrl), Alt, Shift, Function (Fn), Escape (Esc), and the Windows key on a Windows-based computer.

Can I use special keys for shortcuts?

Yes, you can. Special keys often form the basis for keyboard shortcuts. For instance, using Ctrl+C copies highlighted text, while Ctrl+V pastes it. Learning these combinations can help speed up your workflow significantly.

What does the "alt" special key do?

The "alt" key is used in combination with other keys to perform specific tasks. For example, Alt+F4 closes the current window in most Windows applications. It's also used to access the menu bar in many programs.

Could I create my own keyboard shortcuts using special keys?

Absolutely, many software programs allow you to customize keyboard shortcuts. This typically involves selecting a command and assigning a unique combination of keys to trigger it. However, you should be careful not to overwrite important default shortcuts.

What's the purpose of the "Fn" special key on my laptop?

The "Fn" key is primarily found on laptops and is used to activate secondary functions on other keys. For example, pressing Fn along with one of the F1-F12 keys can adjust volume, brightness, or other system settings.

Does the "shift" key have any uses beyond capitalization and punctuation?

Yes, it does. Besides its common use for capitalization and punctuation, the "Shift" key is also used with other keys for various functions. For instance, Shift+Delete permanently deletes a file without sending it to the recycle bin.

When should I use the "escape" key?

The "escape" (Esc) key is commonly used to cancel or close operations. If a dialog box appears on your screen, hitting the Esc key will usually close it. It can also be used to exit full-screen mode in many applications.

What function does the "control" (Ctrl) key serve?

The "control" (Ctrl) key is used with other keys to perform various shortcuts. For example, Ctrl+S usually saves a document, while Ctrl+P opens the print dialog. It's an integral part of many productivity-enhancing shortcuts.

Can the "windows" key do more than just opening the start menu?

Yes, the "windows" key can do quite a bit more. Alongside opening the start menu, it can be used with other keys for handy shortcuts. For example, Windows+L locks your computer, while Windows+E opens the File Explorer.

Would it be possible to disable special keys?

Yes, it's possible to disable certain special keys if they're causing issues or being pressed accidentally. This can usually be done through your operating system's settings or with third-party software.

How can I use special keys in programming?

In programming, special keys can be used to format code, navigate quickly, and execute commands in an integrated development environment (IDE). The specific functions vary depending on the IDE and the programming language.

Does every keyboard layout have the same special keys?

No, not every keyboard layout has the same special keys. While many are standard, like Ctrl, Alt, and Shift, others may vary based on the type of keyboard, the models, or the region it's intended for.

What is the role of special keys in gaming?

In gaming, special keys often have specific functions assigned by the game developers. For instance, the Escape key usually opens the game menu, while the Control or Shift keys might be used for actions like crouching or running. Customization options often allow you to assign game actions to different keys as per your preference.

Can special keys be used in mobile devices?

Yes, special keys can be found on physical keyboards of mobile devices too. Though touchscreens have largely replaced physical keys, devices with hardware keyboards often include special keys like Shift, Alt, and Function keys. Additionally, virtual keyboard apps may also incorporate special key functions.

Could I use special keys for navigation?

The Arrow keys are often used to navigate through text or select items on a screen. Page Up and Page Down keys let you scroll quickly through documents or webpages. Home and End keys can take you to the start or end of a line of text, respectively.

Does the "caps lock" key have other functions apart from toggling case?

Primarily, the "caps lock" key is used to toggle between uppercase and lowercase letters. However, in some software, it can have additional functions. For example, in Adobe Photoshop, pressing Caps Lock changes the cursor's appearance.

What does the "tab" key do?

The "tab" key is primarily used for navigation and indentation. When filling out forms or moving between fields, the Tab key allows you to jump to the next field. In word processors or coding environments, it's used to create indents.

Would the "enter" key have any uses beyond submitting information or creating a new line?

Yes, the "enter" key can also be used for navigation. In file explorers, pressing Enter will open the selected file or folder. In web browsers, it can be used to follow a highlighted link.

How does the "print screen" key work?

The "Print Screen" key, often abbreviated as "PrtScn", takes a screenshot of your entire screen when pressed. This screenshot is then copied to your clipboard, allowing you to paste it into an image editing program or document.

Can special keys be used in combination with mouse clicks?

Yes, they can. For example, holding down the Ctrl key while clicking allows you to select multiple items at once in many programs and operating systems. Similarly, Shift+click can be used to select a range of items.

How does the "backspace" key work?

The "backspace" key deletes the character to the left of the cursor in text fields. It can also be used for navigation in some applications. For example, in many web browsers, pressing Backspace will navigate you back to the previous webpage.

What does the "delete" key do?

The "delete" key removes the character to the right of the cursor in text fields. It can also be used to delete files or items. For instance, selecting a file and then pressing the delete key will move the file to the Recycle Bin or Trash.

Can I use the "shift" key for anything other than capitalizing letters?

Yes, the "shift" key can be used for more than just capitalizing letters. When used in combination with other keys, it can perform various functions. For example, Shift+Tab usually moves the focus to the previous field or button. In many video games, holding down shift makes the character run or sprint.

Looking for a Great Deal?
Shop Lenovo.com for great deals on A+ Education PCs, Accessories, Bundles and more.
Shop Deals Now

  • Legion 7i Gen 9 (16″ Intel) Gaming Laptop
    Starting at
    $1,699.99
    Learn More
  • ThinkPad X9 15 Aura Edition (15ʺ Intel) Laptop
    Starting at
    $1,127.97
    Learn More
  • Yoga Book 9i (13” Intel)
    Starting at
    $1,999.99
    Learn More
  • Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition (14″ Intel) Laptop
    Starting at
    $1,439.99
    Learn More
  • ThinkPad P1 Gen 7 (16″ Intel) Mobile Workstation
    Starting at
    $2,239.00
    Learn More
  • Shop
    • Student Deals
    • K-12 Student Laptops
    • Student Accessories
    • Laptops by Major
    Education resource
    Explore
    • What is STEM?
    • Best Laptops for College
    • Student & Teacher Discounts
    • Lenovo Sustainability Programs
    Education carry case

    Stem Articles
    See All STEM Articles
    • Online STEM Education

    • STEM Career Tips & Resources

    • Women in STEM

    • STEM Educator Training

    • STEM Grants & Funding

    • STEM Education: Coding for Kids

    • STEM Education: Robotics

    • STEM Education: Biotechnology

    • STEM Education: Sustainability

    • STEM Education: AI & ML

    While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, this glossary is provided for reference purposes only and may contain errors or inaccuracies. It serves as a general resource for understanding commonly used terms and concepts. For precise information or assistance regarding our products, we recommend visiting our dedicated support site, where our team is readily available to address any questions or concerns you may have.

    Why Lenovo?

    Go Greener with Leno...

    Lenovo is committed to Smarter Climate Action with lower energy laptops, use of sustainable materials and packaging, and available CO2 Offset Services.
    Learn More
    pastel background

    Get It Now, Pay For ...

    Lenovo has multiple financing option: the Lenovo Credit Card, installment plans, and lease-to-own financing op...
    Learn More
    pastel background

    Productivity & Peace of Mind

    Stay productive with Premium Care Plus - 24/7 priority support and coverage against accidental damage. Power through your day with our Smart Performance and extended battery solutions.
    Learn More
    pastel background

    Fast & Secure

    Get the most from your laptop with Lenovo’s state-of-the-art Smart Performance, delivering powerful, all-in-on...
    Learn More
    pastel background

    Assistance and Suppo...

    Chat with a trained professional who can help you find the right products, place or check on an order, or setup your Education laptop.
    Contact Us
    pastel background
    Enter email to receive Lenovo marketing and promotional emails. Review our Privacy Statement for more details.
    Please enter the correct email address!
    Email address is required
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Youtube
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • Instagram
    Select Country / Region:
    Country
    AndroidIOS

    About Lenovo

    • Our Company
    • News
    • Investors Relations
    • Compliance
    • ESG
    • Product Recycling
    • Product Security
    • Product Recalls
    • Executive Briefing Center
    • Lenovo Cares
    • Careers
    • Formula 1 Partnership

    Products & Services

    • Laptops & Ultrabooks
    • Smarter AI for You
    • Desktop Computers
    • Workstations
    • Gaming
    • Tablets
    • Servers, Storage, & Networking
    • Accessories & Software
    • Services & Warranty
    • Product FAQs
    • Outlet
    • Deals
    • Lenovo Coupons
    • Cloud Security Software
    • Windows 11 Upgrade

    Resources

    • Legion Gaming Community
    • Lenovo EDU Community
    • Lenovo Pro Community
    • Lenovo Pro for Business
    • My Lenovo Rewards
    • Lenovo Financing
    • Lenovo Trade-in
    • Affiliate Program
    • Affinity Program
    • Employee Purchase Program
    • Lenovo Partner Hub
    • Laptop Buying Guide
    • Where to Buy
    • Glossary

    Customer Support

    • Contact Us
    • Policy FAQs
    • Return Policy
    • Shipping Information
    • Order Lookup
    • Register a Product
    • Replacement Parts
    • Technical Support
    • Forums
    • Provide Feedback
    © 2025 Lenovo. All rights reserved.
    PrivacyCookie Consent ToolSite MapTerms of UseExternal Submission PolicySales terms and conditionsAnti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
    Compare  ()
    x
    Call

    Need Help? Call: 

    1-800-426-7235
    Select Your Store
    Add items to your cart?
    We've noticed that you've entered a different store. Do you want to add these items to your cart in this Store?
    No Yes. Add in Lenovo Pro
    Add items to your Lenovo Pro Store?
    We've noticed that you've entered a different store. Do you want to add these items to your cart in Lenovo Pro Store?
    No Yes.Add items in Lenovo Pro store.
    Add items to your Affinity Store?
    We've noticed that you've entered a different store. Do you want to add these items to your cart in Affinity Store?
    No Yes.Add items in Affinity store.
    Add items to your Education Store?
    We've noticed that you've entered a different store. Do you want to add these items to your cart in Education Store?
    No Yes.Add items in Education store.