Function Keys F1 to F12 – A Beginner’s Guide

Published: 19 Apr 2025

Function keys on a keyboard play an important role in improving computer productivity. These keys, known as F keys in computer or function keys on the keyboard, range from F1 to F12. Each key performs a specific task depending on the software or operating system in use. This complete guide explains the function key F1 to F12, how they work with the FN key, and how to fix them if your F keys are not working.

What Are Function Keys?

Function keys (F1 to F12) are placed on the top row of your keyboard. These keys are labeled as F1, F2, F3… up to F12. The main function of keyboard keys is to offer quick access to features without using a mouse. These F keys on keyboard are widely used for help menus, refreshing pages, opening tools, closing apps, and more.

Some keyboards also allow combining function keys with Ctrl, Alt, Shift, or FN keys to perform different tasks. Let’s go through the function keys of keyboard one by one.

Function of the F Keys on a Keyboard

The function keys are more than just a set of random buttons; each one has a specific role that can help speed up your tasks. Ready to discover how each key works? Let’s jump in and take a closer look!

F1 Key Function

Opens help/documentation in almost every software.
In browsers, it opens online support pages.
Combined with FN, it might control screen brightness or mute on some laptops.

F2 Key

Renames selected files and folders.
In Excel, enters direct edit mode inside a cell.
On laptops, FN + F2 often toggles Wi-Fi.

F3 Key

Opens the search bar in Windows Explorer and many apps.
Pressing F3 in Command Prompt repeats the last command.
Works with Shift for advanced search options.

F4 Key

Alt + F4 shortcut closes open windows or programs.
Ctrl + F4 closes the active document or tab (not the entire program).
FN + F4 could adjust display modes on laptops.

F5 Key

Refreshes web pages in browsers.
Re-runs slide shows in PowerPoint.
FN + F5 may disable or enable the touchpad.

F6 Key

Moves the cursor to the address bar in web browsers.
In MS Word, toggles focus between panes.
Some laptops use FN + F6 to mute/unmute the mic.

F7 Key

Starts spelling and grammar checks in Microsoft Word.
Shift + F7 opens the thesaurus.
FN + F7 could control media playback (pause/play).

F8 Key

Enables Safe Mode when pressed during startup in older Windows versions.
In Excel, extends selection mode for cells.
Some laptops use FN + F8 for screen mirroring.

F9 Key

Refreshes Word document fields.
In Outlook, sends/receives emails.
In software development tools, F9 sets breakpoints.

F10 Key

Activates menu bar in apps.
Shift + F10 acts like a right-click.
FN + F10 mutes system volume on many keyboards.

F11 Key

Toggles full-screen mode in browsers.
In Excel, inserts new chart sheets.
FN + F11 decreases brightness on laptops.

F12 Key

Opens “Save As” in MS Word.
Ctrl + F12 opens a Word file.
In browsers, F12 opens Developer Tools.

Shortcut Keys Using Function Keys

Function keys also work with combinations like Ctrl, Alt, and FN. These F key shortcuts help speed up tasks. Below are popular keyboard function keys with common shortcuts:

Shortcut	Function
Alt + F4	Close active window
Ctrl + F4	Close active tab
Shift + F10	Right-click
FN + F1 to F12	Brightness, Volume, Wi-Fi, Media
Ctrl + Alt + F1 (Linux)	Switch to console mode
F11	Enter/Exit full-screen mode
F12	Open Developer Tools in Chrome

These combinations make the function keys keyboard more versatile and powerful.

Using the FN Key on Laptop Keyboards

Many modern laptops have limited space, so F keys on keyboard often double as multimedia keys (volume, brightness, etc.). The FN key helps switch between original function and multimedia controls.

If you’re using a keyboard with F keys, check for FN Lock or settings that reverse the FN functionality. Usually:

Press FN + Esc to toggle FN Lock.
You can change FN behavior in BIOS settings.
Some keyboards show a small light when FN Lock is active.

Function Keys Not Working? Fix It Here

If the F keys in keyboard are not working as expected:

Check if FN key is locked: Try FN + Esc.
Update keyboard drivers: Use Device Manager on Windows.
Change BIOS/UEFI settings: Enable standard F1–F12 behavior.
Use manufacturer software: Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc., provide utilities to manage FN keys.
Try external keyboard: See if function keys work normally.

This often solves most issues related to keyboard function keys not working.

Function Keys in Different Keyboards

There are several types of keyboards:

Full-size keyboard: Includes all F keys on keyboard from F1 to F12.
Compact laptop keyboards: Often combine function keys of keyboard with media keys.
Gaming keyboards: Offer programmable F key keyboard functions.
Mac keyboards: Replace F keys with special keys but still support F1–F12 with FN.

The function keys on a keyboard may behave differently depending on the keyboard layout or manufacturer.

Keyboard with F Keys vs Without

Some modern or compact keyboards remove F keys for design purposes. However, traditional users still prefer keyboard with F keys because they offer more control and flexibility, especially for power users, developers, and gamers.

Conclusion

The function keys on keyboard (F1 to F12) are more than just the top row of buttons. Each function key F1 to F12 serves a purpose that can make your work faster and easier. From opening help menus to closing apps and refreshing pages, these F keys in computer are powerful tools. Combine them with other keys to unlock more features. And if your F keys are not working, simple fixes are often all it takes.

Knowing the function of the F keys on a keyboard is essential for improving your computer skills and productivity.

FAQ’s About Function Keys

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions related to the Function Keys:

What is the function of F1 on the keyboard?

F1 typically opens the help section of most programs. It’s a universal shortcut for support documentation.

How can I use F keys without pressing FN?

You can enable FN lock by pressing FN + Esc or change the behavior in your BIOS/UEFI settings.

What does F2 do in Windows?

F2 is used to rename selected files or folders quickly.

Why is Alt + F4 not working?

Check if the FN key is locked. Also, confirm that no background software is overriding shortcuts.

What does F5 do on a laptop?

F5 refreshes pages in browsers and updates data in spreadsheets. It may also control touchpad settings on some laptops.

How do I fix function keys not working?

Try unlocking FN key, updating drivers, or checking BIOS settings.

What is the use of F10?

F10 activates the menu bar in many applications and can act as a right-click when combined with Shift.

What is the shortcut key for full screen?

F11 is used to enter and exit full-screen mode in most web browsers.

Do Mac keyboards have F keys?

Yes, Mac keyboards have F1 to F12 keys, often used with the “fn” or “Command” key for shortcuts.

Can I customize function keys?

Yes, many software and laptop brands allow you to remap F keys using built-in tools or third-party apps.