Understanding the Keyboard

Understanding what the keyboard is, what it is capable of, and how best to utilize it will improve your web browsing experience! Below is some useful information about the keyboard and helpful tips & tricks to make your life just a little bit easier! What is the Keyboard? The keyboard... Was the first method of […]

Understanding what the keyboard is, what it is capable of, and how best to utilize it will improve your web browsing experience! Below is some useful information about the keyboard and helpful tips & tricks to make your life just a little bit easier!

What is the Keyboard?

The keyboard...

Was the first method of interfacing with computers
Is used for typing but also for navigation and interaction
Is very powerful and useful if you know how to utilize it
Does not have to be scary!

Common Navigational Keys

Tab

Tab key

The Tab key moves keyboard focus to the next interactive element, such as a link, button, form field, etc.
Contrary to popular belief, pressing this key will not make a diet soda appear out of thin air.

Arrow Keys

The Arrow keys are used to scroll the page, but also to move focus within form fields (such as changing the selection in a set of radio buttons or changing the selection of a drop-down list).

Spacebar

The Spacebar is used to activate links and buttons.

Enter/Return

The Enter/Return key is used to activate links and buttons.

Escape

The Escape key is used to close or dismiss modal dialogs (i.e., pop-ups).

Modifier Keys

“Modifier keys” are keys that when used in conjunction with another key(s), makes that other key(s) perform a different function. For example, holding Shift while pressing a letter key will type the uppercase of that letter. Common modifier keys are: