How to Use Computer Keyboard

Level of difficulty: Easy

The computer keyboard is an input device, modeled partially after the typewriter keyboard. The arrangement of keys and buttons act as mechanical levers or electronic switches. A keyboard generally contains characters printed or engraved on the keys. Each key press matches to a single written symbol. It is also possible to produce a number of symbols, which require the simultaneous pressing and holding down of several keys or in sequence. Normally, a keyboard represents letters and numbers but may be made to represent symbols or different languages other than English.

Materials Needed:
- Personal Computer (PC)
- keyboard
Step 1
Choose your keyboard. A huge assortment of keyboards is available on the market today, which provides a number of different colors, design and functionality. Firstly, it is important to select a keyboard compatible to the computer and its keyboard port, attached by either PS/2 or USB port. Then, select a keyboard suited to the budget, your keyboard space (size), and function. Lastly, choose a design that defines style or personality.
Step 2
Plug the keyboard to the PC. Make sure that the PC is off. Remove packaging of your keyboard and plug it to the PC through the appropriate port (PS/2 or USB). Place the keyboard in its designated spot then open the PC. Check the keyboard by inspecting light displays for the 'Caps Lock' and 'Numlock' mode and activating computer functions through the keyboard like the 'Control-Escape' or 'CTRL-ESC' function to open 'Start' button on the lower-left corner of the Desktop.
Step 3
Learn the keyboard functions and computer functions or commands. Study the keyboard features and functions by browsing through its accompanying user’s manual. Learn useful Windows shortcuts available through keyboard used by checking the Windows 'Start' button and selecting the 'Help and Support' option. On the 'Search' prompt, enter 'keyboard shortcut' and read topics related to keyboard shortcuts.
Step 4
Periodically clean the keyboard by holding it upside down and gently shaking it to release dirt, dust, food crumbs or other particles. Next, with a dry clean cloth, wipe accessible surfaces of the keyboard. Clean in-between key spaces by using compressed air, or cotton swabs doused with a bit of alcohol. Computer cleaning solvents or dishwashing liquid may also be applied to a rag and may be used to wipe the surface of the keyboard.