A function key is a special key on a computer keyboard, usually labeled F1 through F12, that performs specific tasks when you press it. Unlike regular letter keys that just type characters, function keys trigger actions: pressing F5 might refresh a web page, while F11 often makes a video go full-screen.

What each function key does depends on which program you're using. In a word processor, F7 might check your spelling, but in a game, F7 might save your progress. Some function keys work the same way across many programs: F1 almost always opens a help menu when you need assistance.

Function keys sit in a row at the top of most keyboards, separate from the number and letter keys. They're called “function” keys because they perform functions, or specific jobs, rather than simply typing text. On laptops, you sometimes need to hold down a special Fn key while pressing a function key to make it work.

Programmers and people who use computers a lot love function keys because they speed up common tasks. Instead of clicking through menus with a mouse, one quick keystroke gets the job done.