What is a Keyboard?

A keyboard is the main input device for a computer. It lets you type letters, numbers and symbols, and it also sends commands through special keys.

A Short History

The modern keyboard layout comes from the typewriter. The QWERTY layout, named after the first six letters on the top row, was designed in the 1870s and is still the standard today.

Main Parts of a Keyboard

• Alphanumeric keys: Letters and numbers.
• Function keys: F1 to F12, used for shortcuts.
• Control keys: Ctrl, Alt, Shift and the Windows key.
• Navigation keys: Arrow keys, Home, End and Page Up/Down.
• Numeric keypad: A number pad on the right side.

Types of Keyboards

• Wired keyboard: Connects with a USB cable.
• Wireless keyboard: Connects using Bluetooth or a USB receiver.
• Mechanical keyboard: Uses physical switches for each key.
• Membrane keyboard: Uses a soft pressure pad, common and affordable.

Why Typing Matters

Fast, accurate typing is a valuable office skill. Students who practise typing regularly can complete computer work much faster.