Beginner · Computer Fundamentals
Keyboard and Mouse Foundations
Build accurate control of the keyboard and mouse so later computer tasks become easier, faster and safer. You need 80% or higher on the mastery test to unlock the next lesson.
1. Keyboard zones
Learn letters, numbers, punctuation, Spacebar, Enter, Backspace, Delete, Shift, Ctrl, Alt, Tab, Esc, arrow keys, Home, End, Page Up, Page Down and function keys. You do not need to memorize every shortcut today; first learn what the important keys physically do.
2. Essential typing actions
Click inside a text area before typing. Press letters and numbers normally. Use Shift for one capital letter. Use Caps Lock when you intentionally need continuous capitals. Press Backspace to remove characters to the left of the cursor and Delete to remove characters to the right in many editors.
3. Selecting text
Place the cursor where selection should begin. Hold the mouse button and drag across text, then release. On a keyboard, hold Shift and use arrow keys to extend a selection. Ctrl + A commonly selects all content in the current field or document.
4. Copy, cut and paste
Select the text or item. Ctrl + C copies it. Ctrl + X cuts it. Click the destination. Ctrl + V pastes it. Copy is used when the original should remain; cut is used when the original should be moved.
5. Mouse actions
Move, single-click, double-click, right-click, scroll and drag. Double-click only when you intend to open something or perform the action associated with a double-click. Right-click to see a context menu.
6. Practice routine
Open a text editor. Type your name and three sentences. Use Backspace to correct one mistake. Select one word and copy it. Paste it somewhere else. Select a sentence and cut it, then paste it into another position. Use the mouse to select, drag and scroll.
7. Accuracy before speed
Do not race while learning. Keep your eyes on the screen, use gentle key pressure, and make deliberate mouse movements. Speed naturally improves after accuracy becomes automatic.
Quick practice
Now perform the practical task in this lesson on a real computer whenever possible. If you cannot perform it yet, repeat the steps slowly until you can do them without guessing.
Open Practice LabMastery test
Take the mastery test only after you have read the lesson and attempted the practical tasks. You need 80% or higher.
Take the test