What is F12?
•F12 is a function key on a computer keyboard, often used for various purposes, such as accessing advanced features, developer tools or system-level functions.
•The symbol “F12” is usually printed on the key, which is typically found on the top row of the keyboard and is sometimes accompanied by other function keys, such as F1-F11.
•The specific use of the F12 key varies depending on the software used.
•Still, its primary function is to provide quick access to a range of tools and options that are not normally accessible through the standard user interface.
How to use the F12 key?
•The F12 key can be used in various ways, depending on the software you’re using.
•Here are some common uses of the F12 key:
Developer Tools:
ØIn web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge, pressing F12 opens the developer console.
ØThis powerful tool allows developers to inspect and debug their web applications, view error messages, and test the behaviour of their code.
Save As:
•In Microsoft Office applications, pressing F12 opens the Save As dialogue box, allowing you to quickly save a document as a different file type, such as a PDF, Word document, or Excel spreadsheet.
System-Level Functions:
•In some operating systems, such as Windows and Linux, the F12 key can access system-level functions, such as screen captures, system settings, and configuration options.
•For example, in Windows, you can use the F12 key to take a screenshot of the entire screen or to capture a specific window or region.
Gaming:
•In some video games, the F12 key can be used as a game shortcut, allowing players to perform specific actions, such as opening the in-game menu or accessing cheat codes.
BIOS:
•On some computers, pressing the F12 key during boot-up will take you to the BIOS setup, where you can make changes to the system settings, such as changing the boot order or setting a password.
Note:
•The specific use of the F12 key may vary depending on the software you’re using, and some software may not use the F12 key at all.
•You can usually find information using the F12 key in the software’s documentation or by searching online.
•Additionally, some keyboard manufacturers may have customized the F12 key to perform specific actions, so it’s always a good idea to check your keyboard’s documentation to determine its exact use.
•The F12 key often has a secondary function, indicated by an icon on the key itself.
•To access this secondary function, the user must press and hold down the Fn key while also pressing the F12 key.
•This allows the user to access a different, secondary set of functions assigned to the F12 key.
•For example, on an Apple computer, the secondary function of the F12 key might be to mute the audio.
•The user would hold down the fn key and press the F12 key to perform this action.
•The F12 key is typically located near the top-right corner of a standard computer keyboard, along with the other function keys, F1 to F11.
•The exact placement of the F12 key may vary depending on the keyboard manufacturer and model, but it is usually located in a consistent position relative to the other function keys.
•The location of the F12 key is important because it allows quick and easy access to its various functions, such as the developer console in web browsers or the Save As dialogue box in Microsoft Office applications.
•Having the key in a consistent location makes it easier for users to remember where to find it and to perform its functions without having to search for it each time.
Uses of the F12 Key in Different Applications and Operating Systems
•The F12 key is a versatile tool that can be used in several different applications and operating systems, including:
ØApple macOS: On Apple computers running the macOS operating system, the F12 key can access system-level functions, such as screen captures, system settings, and configuration options.
ØBoot: During the boot process of some computers, the F12 key can be used to access the boot menu, allowing the user to select a different boot device, such as a USB drive or CD/DVD, to boot from.
ØInternet browser: In web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge, the F12 key can be used to open the developer console, which is a powerful tool used by developers to inspect and debug their web applications. The developer console provides access to the source code of the Page, network requests, error messages, and a JavaScript console for testing and debugging code.
ØMicrosoft Excel: In Microsoft Excel, the F12 key can quickly bring up the Save As dialogue box, allowing the user to save a workbook as a different file type, such as a PDF, Excel Workbook, or CSV file.
ØMicrosoft Expression Web: In Microsoft Expression Web, the F12 key can preview the current Page in a web browser, allowing the user to see how the Page will look and function in a real-world environment.
ØMicrosoft Word: In Microsoft Word, the F12 key can quickly bring up the Save As dialogue box, allowing the user to save a document as a different file type, such as a PDF, Word document, or Rich Text Format (RTF) file.
ØWindows Photo Gallery: In Windows Photo Gallery, the F12 key can be used to access the Slide Show view, which allows the user to view a slideshow of their photos, complete with transitions and music.
•These are just a few examples of the many locations where the F12 key can be used.
•The functions that can be performed using the F12 key may vary depending on the device, operating system, and application used.
•Regardless of the specific use case, the F12 key is a convenient and frequently used tool for many users.
