What the keyboard and mouse can do
We explore the groups of keys, keyboard shortcuts, and the right button and wheel of the mouse, so that we can work on the computer faster and more comfortably.
All topics (2 of 11)
Chapter 1. Getting to know the computer
Chapter 2. Files and folders
Chapter 3. Information
Chapter 4. Working with text and graphics
The keys on a keyboard are divided into several groups. In the middle are the keys for letters, numbers and signs, and the top row has the function keys F1–F12. On the right are the arrow keys that move the cursor, and a large keyboard also has a separate block for numbers.
Special keys work differently from letter keys. When Caps Lock is on, all letters are typed as capitals, while Shift gives a capital letter only while you hold it down. Tab makes an indent in the text, and Esc closes an open menu or cancels an action.
Some keys give a quick command when pressed together. Ctrl + C copies the selected item, Ctrl + V pastes it where you need it, and Ctrl + X cuts it. Ctrl + Z undoes the last action, and Ctrl + S saves the document. First press and hold Ctrl, then press the second key.
The left mouse button chooses and opens, while the right button opens the context menu: a list of actions you can do with the selected item. Turning the wheel scrolls the page up or down. By holding a button and moving the mouse, you can move files or select text.
Key takeaways
- Keys are divided into letter and number keys, function keys, arrow keys and the numeric block.
ShiftandCaps Lockhelp you type capital letters.Ctrl + C,Ctrl + V,Ctrl + XandCtrl + Zare the most common shortcuts.- The right mouse button opens the context menu, and the wheel scrolls the page.
Practice tasks
- In a text editor, write one sentence, select it and repeat it three times with
Ctrl + CandCtrl + V, then remove the last repeat withCtrl + Z. - Right-click your text and write down in your notebook the commands from the context menu that opens.
- Type one word in capital letters with
Caps Lockand another one withShift, and explain how the two ways differ.
Review questions
Test yourself: think first, then reveal the answer.
1What are the shortcuts Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V used for?Show answerHide answer
Ctrl + C copies the selected item, and Ctrl + V pastes the copy where you need it.2What is the context menu and how do you open it?Show answerHide answer
It is a list of actions you can do with the selected item; you open it with the right mouse button.3How do the Shift and Caps Lock keys differ?Show answerHide answer
Shift gives capital letters only while you hold it down, while Caps Lock keeps all letters capital until you turn it off.
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