To understand your laptop keyboard, you should be able to identify the following basic items^{1 2}:

• Alphanumeric, or "typewriter," keys: These are the basic typing keys, each of which is labeled with a character (a letter, number, or punctuation symbol).
• Shift keys: The keyboard sports various shift keys used either alone or in combination with other keys.
• Function keys: These keys are labeled F1 through F12 and are found on the top row of the keyboard, right above the number keys.
• Control keys: These keys are used alone or in combination with other keys to perform certain actions.
• Navigation keys: These keys are used to move the cursor on the screen.
• Numeric keypad: This is a set of keys on the right side of the keyboard that provides calculator-style numeric input.