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How to Enable Function Keys

Method 1 Method 1 of 2: Using the Fn Key
  1. 1 Hold down the Fn key. This key is usually found in the bottom-left corner of your keyboard next to the Ctrl or Control key. If you're using a full-size Mac keyboard, you may find it between the letter keys and the 10-key numeric keypad.
  2. 2 Hit the function key you wish to use. These are found at the top of your keyboard.
    • Try pressing F1 while in an application. If this opens a help menu, then you have successfully enabled the function key. On a Mac, this key generally lowers the volume.
Method 2 Method 2 of 2: Using the F Lock Key
  1. 1 Turn on the F lock key. If your keyboard has this key, it'll usually be found in the top-left or top-right corner. A light will usually turn on when the key is enabled.
  2. 2 Press the function key you wish to use. These are at the top of the keyboard.
    • Try pressing F1 while in an application to check that you have successfully enabled the function keys. In Windows, this usually opens the Help menu. On a Mac, it turns down the volume.