What To Know
- To enable standard function keys, go to System Preferences > Keyboard, and enable Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard...
- Mac function keys are different from function keys on Windows and Linux.
- Each key performs a unique function to control your Mac.
This article explains how to use the function keys on your Mac. Located at the top of your Mac keyboard is a collection of keys that feature an F followed by a number, 1-12. These keys, known as Mac function keys, enable you to change certain settings and reach Mac features quickly, with the press of a couple of keys.
How to Enable Standard Function Keys
You may need to go into System Settings to activate function keys on your Mac. Here are the settings to adjust:
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On your Mac, click Launchpad > System Settings.
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From there, click Keyboard, and then click Keyboard Shortcuts.
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Next, select Function Keys from the left.
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From here, toggle Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys on, then click Done.
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Why Use Mac Function Keys?
If you've ever used a keyboard shortcut, you know how simple and fast it is. The time it takes to move your hand to your mouse or trackpad and navigate to the action you wish to take is cut short thanks to the shortcut. The function keys work the same exact way, saving you time as you work, surf the internet, or game.
Some apps allow you to customize the function keys to fit your preferences. You can also change your function keys to match your own shortcuts by remapping them. If there's an action you take often using your Mac, the functions key can help.
Do you have a MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016 and later) or a MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports and later)? If so, your physical function keys are replaced by the Touch Bar, which changes automatically based on the apps you're using.
Windows Keyboard Equivalents for the Mac's Special KeysThe Function of Each F Key
| Mac Function Keys | |
|---|---|
| F1 | Reduce the screen's brightness |
| F2 | Increase the screen's brightness |
| F3 | Activates Expose view, which shows you every app that's running |
| F4 | Showcases your apps or opens the dashboard for access to widgets |
| F5 | For back lit keyboards, F5 decreases the keyboard's brightness |
| F6 | For back lit keyboards, F6 increases the keyboard's brightness |
| F7 | Restarts a music track or jumps to the previous track |
| F8 | Plays or pauses a music track or other content |
| F9 | Skip a music track or fast forward |
| F10 | Mute |
| F11 | Reduces volume |
| F12 | Increases volume |
How to Use the Mac Function Keys
By default, the function keys are ready to use without any other keystrokes. Simply press the key to activate the function you need to perform. The function will automatically activate.
You can also use other shortcuts such as modifier keys to save even more time as you work and play.
However, if you wish to change this, you can use System Preferences to enable standard function keys.
FAQ- How do I change the function keys on my Mac?
Open the Apple menu and select System Preferences > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts > Modifier Keys. Choose a function key and use the pop-up menu to designate an action for it. If you ever want to change the function keys back to what they were originally, select Restore Defaults.
- How do I use function keys if my Mac has a Touch Bar?
Press and hold the Function (fn) key on your keyboard to display the function keys in the Touch Bar. Then press the function key you want as it appears in the Touch Bar.
