Keyboard is the most common and very popular input device which helps in inputting data to the computer. The layout of the keyboard is like that of traditional typewriter, although there are some additional keys provided for performing additional functions.
Keyboards are of two sizes 84 keys or 101/102 keys, but now keyboards with 104 keys or 108 keys are also available for Windows and Internet.
The keys on the keyboard are as follows:
Typing Keys: These keys include the letter keys (A-Z) and digit keys (0-9) which generally give same layout as that of typewriters.
Numeric Keypad: It is used to enter numeric data or cursor movement. Generally, it consists of a set of 17 keys that are laid out in the same configuration used by most adding machines and calculators.
Function Keys: The twelve function keys are present on the keyboard which are arranged in a row at the top of the keyboard. Each function key has unique meaning and is used for some specific purpose.
Control keys: These keys provide cursor and screen control. It includes four directional arrow keys. Control keys also include Home, End, Insert, Delete, Page Up, Page Down, Control(Ctrl), Alternate(Alt), Escape(Esc).
Toggle Key: A toggle key is used to alternate the input mode of a group of keys on a keyboard. Some examples include Caps Lock, Insert, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock.
Modifier Key: a modifier key is a special key (or combination) on a computer keyboard that temporarily modifies the normal action of another key when pressed together. the Alt, Ctrl, and Shift keys are modifier keys
Special Purpose Keys: Keyboard also contains some special purpose keys such as Enter, Space bar, Tab, Multimedia and Print Screen.