Function keys (F1 to F12) have been around since the early days of Windows — and they’re still incredibly useful.

Here’s a quick guide:

  • F1 – Opens help menu in most applications
  • F2 – Rename selected file or folder
  • F3 – Search in File Explorer
  • F4 – Opens address bar drop-down in File Explorer
  • F5 – Refresh page or window
  • F6 – Cycle through elements on a page or window
  • F10 – Activates menu bar in some apps
  • F11 – Full-screen mode in browsers and File Explorer

These are simple, old-school, but still among the fastest ways to get things done — especially for office and IT users who love efficiency.