MANIPULATIVE KEYS

Introduction to Manipulative keys

Keys with multiple functions

Manipulative keys are non-printing characters that are used to change the appearance and layout of text on any page. Examples; a. the Shift Key 

b. the Caps Lock Key 

c. the Enter Key 

d. the Backspace Key 

e. the Tab Key 

f. the Delete 

g. the Insert key  

On a Standard and Enhanced keyboard, there are keys that have more than one function. There are other keys that have been assigned to perform special functions. Such keys are known as manipulative keys. For example, the delete key is used to erase errors made when typing a text or clear unwanted files from the computers memory. It is also used in combination with the Alt key and the Ctrl key when you want to restart the computer.

Let's take a look at some manipulative keys.

Shift Key.
The Shift key is a modifier key on a keyboard; it is used to type capital letters and other alternate "upper" characters. There are two shift keys on the keyboard. One on the left (below the caps Lock key) and right sides (below the enter key).

Tab Key.
The Tab key on a keyboard is used to move the cursor to the next "tab stop". Tab is the abbreviation for Tabulator. To tabulate, (tabulating) means to put something into a table or chart.

Backspace Key.
Backspace key moves the cursor backward one character space. It can also be used to delete the character to the left of the cursor. It is particularly useful for correcting spelling mistakes.

Enter Key.
The enter key is also known as the Return key, it is used to move a cursor to the next line or execute a command or operation. You can find two enter keys on most keyboards, one on the main key pad and another on the numerical keypad.

Insert Key.
Sometimes displayed as INS on the keyboard, the Insert key is a key allows text to be inserted. When insert is enabled, it allows text to be typed over existing text in a document.

Delete Key
On computer keyboards, the delete key (sometimes shortened "DEL"), normally erases the character at the cursor's position, moving all following characters one position "back" towards the freed place.