Keyboarding Terms - Functions

accuracy

a measure of error in keyboarding

arrow keys

keys used to move the cursor up, down, left, or right around screen

backspace key

key used to back up and erase the character or space to the left of the cursor

cursor

A blinking line on the screen that shows where you are typing.

delete key

the key pressed to remove selected text or objects

double space

horizontal line spacing which leaves two blank line spaces between displayed or printed lines of text

enter key

the key pressed to begin a new line or to signal the computer that data has been typed in and completed (also called return key)

escape key

a key that lets the user cancel the last operation and go back to the previous screen

home row keys

on the keyboard, the keys (left hand:f d s a and right hand j k l ;)

keyboard

an arrangement of keys on a "board" that is attached to a computer used to input data

monitor

a device that displays text and graphics generated by a computer

mouse

a device that controls the pointer on the screen

NUM Lock

A key used to switch the number keypad between number entry and editing.

printer

a device that is attached to the computer and produces a hard copy of the document.

proofread

to read text (copy) on the monitor or on a printout and to correct errors

save

A function that records keys strokes on disk or drive to retrieve later.

SHIFT key

A key used to make capital letters and certain symbols when pressed in combination with another key

Spacing

The number of blank lines between printed lines

space bar

a long bar at the bottom of a keyboard used to create a blank space in text

spell check

a function in Word that checks spelling

tab key

When pressed this key moves the cursor to settings that are used to line up columns of text in a document or to move to data entry areas in programs or dialog boxes

WPM

Words Per Minute

bold

characters shown with thicker, darker strokes

CAPS Lock

A key that when locked down causes all letters to be capitalized.

Command

An instruction to the computer

Font

A style of print

Function Keys

Special keys that perform special "functions", such as setting margins.

Left Margin

The amount of space left blank on the left side of the paper.

Copy

A feature that allows you to make duplicates or copies of text, pictures etc.

Word Wrap

Permits the operator to key successive lines of text without having to strike the Enter Key.

Skill

the ability to do something well.