Help key
Encyclopedia
A Help key, found in the shape of a dedicated key explicitly labeled "Help", or as another key, typically one of the function key
s, on a computer keyboard
, is a key which, when pressed, produces information on the screen/display to aid the user in his/her current task, such as using a specific function in an application program.
In the case of a non-dedicated Help key, the location of the key will sometimes vary between different software packages. Most common in computer history, however, is the development of a de facto
Help key location for each brand/family of computer, exemplified by the use of F1 on IBM compatible PCs.
, the help key was labelled simply as "Help", located to the left of the home key
. Where IBM compatible PC keyboards had the insert key
, Apple keyboards had the help key instead. As of 2007, new Apple keyboards do not have a help key. In its place, a full-sized Apple Keyboard
has a Fn key
instead. Instead of a mechanical help key, the menu bar for most applications contain a Help menu as a matter of convention.
Function key
A function key is a key on a computer or terminal keyboard which can be programmed so as to cause an operating system command interpreter or application program to perform certain actions...
s, on a computer keyboard
Computer keyboard
In computing, a keyboard is a typewriter-style keyboard, which uses an arrangement of buttons or keys, to act as mechanical levers or electronic switches...
, is a key which, when pressed, produces information on the screen/display to aid the user in his/her current task, such as using a specific function in an application program.
In the case of a non-dedicated Help key, the location of the key will sometimes vary between different software packages. Most common in computer history, however, is the development of a de facto
De facto
De facto is a Latin expression that means "concerning fact." In law, it often means "in practice but not necessarily ordained by law" or "in practice or actuality, but not officially established." It is commonly used in contrast to de jure when referring to matters of law, governance, or...
Help key location for each brand/family of computer, exemplified by the use of F1 on IBM compatible PCs.
Apple keyboards
On a full-sized Apple keyboardApple keyboard
The Apple Keyboard is a keyboard designed by Apple first for the Apple line, then the Macintosh line of computers. It is available in both wired and Bluetooth models.- Layout :...
, the help key was labelled simply as "Help", located to the left of the home key
Home key
The home key is a key commonly found on computer keyboards. The key has the opposite effect of the end key. In limited-size keyboards where the home key is missing the same functionality can be reached via the key combination of -Microsoft Windows:...
. Where IBM compatible PC keyboards had the insert key
Insert key
The Insert key is a key commonly found on computer keyboards.It is primarily used to switch between the two text-entering modes on a personal computer or word processor. The first is overtype mode, in which the cursor, when typing, overwrites any text that is present on and after its current...
, Apple keyboards had the help key instead. As of 2007, new Apple keyboards do not have a help key. In its place, a full-sized Apple Keyboard
Apple keyboard
The Apple Keyboard is a keyboard designed by Apple first for the Apple line, then the Macintosh line of computers. It is available in both wired and Bluetooth models.- Layout :...
has a Fn key
Fn key
Fn, or 'Function', is a modifier key on many keyboards, especially on laptops, used in a compact layout to combine keys which are usually kept separate. It is typically found on laptops, since a full-sized keyboard would be difficult to fit in a laptop chassis. It is also found in many full-sized...
instead. Instead of a mechanical help key, the menu bar for most applications contain a Help menu as a matter of convention.