Shift Key

Example: "The Shift key is commonly used to capitalize the first letter of each sentence."

Shift is a modifier key that allows you to capitalize lowercase letters and enter various symbols and punctuation marks. To use the Shift key, simply press and hold Shift while typing another key on the keyboard. The Shift key can be used in conjunction with the Command (Mac) or Control (PC) keys to perform various keyboard shortcuts. Many programs also allow the Shift key to be used with the mouse button in order to select multiple objects. For example, to select more than one object, click on the first object, then hold the Shift key while clicking on the other objects you want to select.

First Published: 2009
Last Updated: February 25, 2009