F1: the neglected key

The F1 key must be one of the loneliest keys on a Windows keyboard. Not only is it rarely used, but most people seem unaware of its function.

Press it now – go ahead, try it. In most Windows software, F1 launches the help function. This is the internal help provided by each application. Once launched you can usually, depending upon how the particular help function is designed, search for terms you enter, check the index, or browse topics.

I’m amazed at how often users ask a friend or co-worker for assistance, or even post a query in an on-line forum, without thinking to first try the help function.

I tried F1 on many applications on my PC including Internet Explorer, Microsoft Office programs such as Word and Excel, iTunes, NoteTab, uTorrent, Firefox, Acronis True Image, and many more. In fact, every major application that I tried responded to the F1 key with a help window.

Simultaneously pressing the Windows Key + F1 opens the Microsoft Windows help and Support Center, a useful starting point for finding assistance with the operating system, networking, etc.

Next time you’re having trouble with a program feature or need some explanation, try F1.