On a computer keyboard, in addition to letters and numbers, there are keys without any assigned characters. These keys have different assigned functions that can be performed in combination with other keys. It's worth reading about as these shortcuts can make your daily work much easier. They will give you quick access to commands or special characters that could otherwise only be done indirectly..
Next, we will talk about the Alt key , which does not have its own function. However, when pressed in combination with other keys, it offers the execution of many functions . We offer you a general list of the most common commands offered by this key.
The term? Alt? is the abbreviation of the English word alternate (in Spanish, alternate ). This says a lot about how it works: if you press the Alt key simultaneously with another key, the operating system ignores the basic function of this other key and offers you an alternative command instead..
The Alt key is in the bottom row of the keyboard, to the left of the space bar. The English keyboards have two identical Alt keys (to the left and to the right of the space bar) since they are conformed according to the ten-finger system, but on the Spanish keyboard, to the right is the AltGr key.
Mac keyboards usually have the Alt key labeled "Option." We explain more about it in our guide on the Alt key on Mac..
The Alt key has no function on its own. It will only execute a command in the operating system if it is used in combination with other keys. There are some exceptions, for example when using special applications or computer games. The same happens with the Control key Ctrl and with the AltGr key.
Although the names are very similar, the Alt and AltGr keys differ in their function. The Alt key allows you to execute different commands using different shortcuts. Due to the large number of letters and characters in the Spanish language, some keys have up to three different assignments. The AltGr key allows you to access this third function , which is usually found in the lower right corner of the keys. The AltGr key is to the right of the space bar.
To execute commands with the Alt key, you must press it simultaneously with certain keys. The options available depend on whether a program is open or whether you want to run Windows operating system commands .
The Alt key provides quick access to different commands in the Windows operating system. The following table provides a summary of the most common key combinations .
Various combinations with the Alt key allow you to easily switch the view between open programs .
You can also execute commands with the Alt key in applications that you have installed in your operating system, for example, in the word processor Word. If you use certain functions frequently, it is very useful to use these shortcuts. This way you can improve your efficiency and save time.
There is also a shortcut with the Alt key that gives access to the document tabs . After accessing a section of the menu in this way, Word will display a lettered shortcut for each function. You must press the letter of the option you want. Another way to navigate through the options is by using the Tab key followed by Enter to confirm your selection.
