Mac Keyboard (Full)

Click on a green plus (+) symbol below to learn about the keys of the keyboard. When you're done, scroll down for more information and practice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Keyboard

Why does my keyboard look different from the one shown above?

Your keyboard may look different depending on the model of Mac you have and where in the world it was made. It is very common for keyboards to look different from each other, but the most important keys will be in the same place on just about all keyboards. The top row of keys on the keyboard is most likely to be the one with differing keys. If you want to learn more about the keys on YOUR keyboard, try a Google search such as "what are all the keys on my Macbook Pro 2020 keyboard?" or "what is the 'num lock' key on my keyboard used for?"

My keyboard has a small screen on the top row instead of buttons. Why?

This is called the Touch Bar and it is only on some newer models of Mac computers. To learn more, click HERE (note: this will take you to another website). 

What are the F1-F12 keys used for?

These "function" keys are used as shortcuts for various purposes, depending on the program you are using. To use the function keys you must press and hold the Fn key on the keyboard while pressing any of the F1 to F12 keys. Most people do not use these keys very often (or at all!) and it is not necessary to know how to use them in order to use your keyboard effectively. If you want to learn more about the F keys, click HERE (note: clicking will take you to another website).

What other keyboard shortcuts are there?

There are a LOT of keyboard shortcuts. Some of the most common ones are Command-c to copy, Command-x to cut, Command-v to paste, Command-p to print, Command-s to save and Command-a to select all items. For a full list, click HERE (note: this will bring you to another website). 

What are the symbols on the command, option, and control keys?

These symbols are also shown in the menus of some apps to indicate the keyboard shortcuts that are available for different commands and actions. For example, ⌘ P shown on a menu means you can type Command + P to print.