The function keys on a computer keyboard labeled F1 through F12, are keys that have a special function defined by a currently running program or operating system. They can be combined with the Ctrl or Alt keys.
First, what is Shift + F3 for?
In this context, we are talking about Shift F3 which doesn’t work in programs like Word, PowerPoint. In these programs this shortcut is usually used to change the text case from uppercase to lowercase, lowercase to uppercase, etc. Basically cycling between lowercase, uppercase and uppercase.
1. You are using a Lenovo, Dell, Acer or other laptop which overrides the settings 2. Shift F3 doesn’t work when the “Fn” key is locked 3. Add “Fn” a as part of the shortcut 4. You are using more languages on your computer 5. The Shift+F3 shortcut has been “hijacked” by another program 6. Convert anywhere, use a dedicated app for case conversions
The most useful Shift combinations
But Shift can do much more – often, it even modifies a particular mouse action or key combination. Here is a brief overview:
- The Shift key is often used in conjunction with the arrow keys to select text.
- Often the Shift key changes the behavior of the program slightly. For example, if you hold down the Shift key while clicking on a link, many web browsers will open the page in a new window (without Shift: same window).
- Similar effect: holding the shift key while clicking on a link will open a new instance of a program.
- Shift is also interesting in combination with the mouse wheel: Shift + mouse wheel down takes you to the last page in some browsers, Shift + mouse wheel up takes you forward in the history. Image viewers like to use Shift + mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
- The key can also change various control and Alt keys. For example, if you use Alt-Tab to cycle through open windows, Shift-Alt-Tab changes in reverse order.
- Shift is sometimes used to change function keys. Modern Microsoft Windows keyboards usually have only 12 function keys; you have to use Shift + F1 to type F13, Shift + F2 for F14 and so on.
- Along with the mouse and keyboard, the Shift key allows for multiple selections. For example, if a file is selected in a list (Windows Explorer), Shift-clicking a file further down the list will select the files you clicked and everything in between! (For selective choices, see Ctrl )
- In DTP or drawing programs, Shift often limits the shape to a strictly horizontal or vertical line. This makes it relatively easy to create squares and circles in graphics programs.
- Right-clicking usually brings up a context menu. In Windows Explorer, Shift + right-click displays additional context menu items. Among other things, the popular item Copy as path appears.