What does the escape key on the keyboard mean: "Escape" functions, hot keys, key replacement, types of keyboards - where is the key located?

Any PC / AT computer keyboard has special keys in English and it means something. The location of the buttons on it obeys a single scheme, each for something necessary. There are over 100 of them. One of them is “Escape” (Esc), which plays an important role in the functioning of the keyboard. Without it, it is impossible to imagine the full use of a computer.

What does “Esc” mean?

"Escape" from English literally translates as "run away" or "escape." In Russian it is pronounced as “Escape”. Distinctive features:

• on most devices, it is located separately from the rest, in the upper left corner;
• manufacturers of computer components intentionally placed it at a distance to avoid accidental clicking during work or play;
• has a standard square shape.

Pressing “Escape” cancels the last action or returns to the previous state. If it is, of course, provided for by an open window.

Escape Features

Intended:

• to cancel the last command executed (you can use the combination CTRL + Z);
• if necessary, an urgent exit from the program or application to the main screen, desktop (this is usually used in various computer games);
• to minimize the open window;
• for emergency exit when the computer freezes up when the mouse stops working (the ALT and F4 tandem perform the same function);
• to go to a directory or list that is higher in the hierarchical list than the current one (alternative to ALT + TAB);
• in Microsoft OfficeExcel and Open OfficeCalc to cancel the last character typed;
• to cancel the last selection;
• in a combination of "hot keys".

ATTENTION. Escape can perform all of these functions, or only some of them (depending on the running application or program).

Hotkeys

For the convenience of users and speeding up work on a personal computer, various combinations are used, the so-called "hot buttons". They quickly, with one click, open the desired windows and programs. Thanks to this, users save their time and nerves from unnecessary actions.

The most popular and necessary combinations:

• In Word Excel, Ctrl + Escape (backward) corresponds to Win, which is usually absent on older keyboards.
• Pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc at the same time opens the Task Manager. You can also use the combination CTRL + ALT + DEL.
• Ctrl + Back + Win open Start.
• Pressing Esc and Alt moves between windows in a specific order. Switching occurs cyclically.
• The combination of Back + Win closes the Magnifier.

Also in the top row there are several buttons starting with the letter F (F1, F2 and so on). They help control your computer without using a mouse. With their help, you can manage folders, change their names, cut text and perform other actions. Highly skilled programmers do not even use the mouse; all actions are performed by them.

Most regular users have been working at the computer for many years, but they don’t know the purpose of F. On modern keyboards, each such button has a small drawing indicating the action that it performs. You can see their value in the instructions or search the Internet.

Key Replacement

If necessary, the location of Escape can be changed. This is especially true for laptops.

NOTE. If the Escape breaks, it will be very difficult to replace it. In some cases, this is completely impossible.

Replacement is carried out using software. Products can be:

• purchase at any specialized store (licensed);
• download on the site, but no one guarantees that it will work properly and will not be a pirated copy.

IMPORTANT. Functional replacement is carried out using a program where the user himself sets the necessary parameters. The button can be left in place and used by another or rearranged. Such manipulations are often used by programmers and users, for whom sometimes Escape has an inconvenient location.

Types of keyboards - where is the key located?

Location:

• QWERTY devices are standard. However, some developers use permutations to make Esp easier to use. As a rule, this innovation suits only a certain category of users. Therefore, such keyboards are mainly made to order in a limited number.
• To save space in laptops, the keys are located close to each other, almost flush. In this regard, "Escape" is pressed accidentally. This leads to undesirable and irreversible consequences.
• “Escape” is placed at a distance from the main keys.
• On components for gaming computers and laptops, this button is generally disabled or a jumper is installed to prevent unplanned clicking.

As it became clear, “Escape” is one of the main buttons on the keyboard. Without it, it is impossible to fully use the entire functionality of the operating system. In various combinations with other buttons, it simplifies and speeds up work on the computer for users, makes it possible to abandon the mouse.