Fundamentals of Computer > Input Devices > Modifier and Non-printable Keys
Modifier and Non-printable Keys
Modifier Keys:
- In addition to letters, numbers and punctuation marks, the alphanumeric keypad also includes some keys such as Shift, Ctrl (control), and Alt (alter) which can modify the input of other keys. They are called modifier keys.
- They are called so because, they are used in conjunction with the other keys. For example, you press a letter or number while holding down one of the modifier keys.
Non-printable Keys:
- Non-printable keys do not represent a written symbol or part of the text.
- They are used for backspacing, going to next line, tabulation, moving cursor up or down, insert and delete characters etc.
- The most common non-printable keys are Backspace, arrow-keys, Tab-key, Modifier Keys, Enter etc.