By Alan Donahue, eHow Contributor
A computer keyboard serves as a main operating tool for accessing and inputting data into a computer. The keyboard features many functions and keys that a user may never use, but is still essential to some users. Understanding the keyboard can improve computer knowledge and use.
QWERTY Pad
The "QWERTY" pad is main sections of letters on the keyboard. These letters are mainly used for typing and also as shortcuts in programs like Windows Movie Maker, Adobe After Effects and computer games.
Number Pads
The far right side of the keyboard features a number pad that resembles a calculator. This number pad is essential for programs like Excel, but can also be used to input numbers as a typing function. More numbers are just above the "QWERTY" keyboard that also feature symbols when the "Shift" button is used.
Arrow Keys
The right bottom of a keyboard features four directional arrow keys. These keys provide navigation through word processing documents and also serve as scrolling functions in web browsers.
F Bar
The top of a keyboard features the "F Keys," a selection of keys that extends to "F12" on most keyboards. These keys serve different functions. For example, "Alt and F4" exits out of a program. "F1" will start the typing helper in word processing programs.
Extra Keys
New keyboard feature shortcut keys at the top of the keyboard. These include shortcuts like "Power," "Sleep Mode," "Calculator," "My Computer" and "Web." Some also include media controls for movies and music.
