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Mac OS is the computer operating system for Apple Computer's MacIntosh line of personal computers and workstations. A popular feature of its latest version, Mac OS X, is a desktop interface with some 3-D appearance characteristics. OS X has a modular design intended to make it easier to add new features to the operating system in the future. While reading the definition, you’ll see links (blue text) to related words. In addition, you can hold the pointer over any word or phrase and click to look up its definition. When you look up a word in a definition, a SnapBack button appears in the search field. Click it to return to your starting definition.

Control features on your Mac

By default, the top row of keys on your Apple keyboard control many different features on your Mac. For example, pressing the keys with speaker icons adjusts the volume.

If your Mac has a Touch Bar, learn about using function keys on MacBook Pro with Touch Bar.

Use standard function keys

Standard function keys work differently depending on the app and the keyboard shortcuts that you've set up. Some apps have their own keyboard shortcut preferences that you can customize.

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To use the standard function keys, hold the Function (Fn)/Globe key when pressing a function key. For example, pressing both Fn and F12 (speaker icon) performs the action assigned to the F12 key instead of raising the volume of your speakers.

If your keyboard doesn’t have an Fn key, try pressing and holding the Control key when pressing a function key.

Change the default function key behavior

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If you want to change the top row of keys to work as standard function keys without holding the Fn key, follow these steps:

  1. Choose Apple menu  > System Preferences.
  2. Click Keyboard.
  3. Select 'Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys'.

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If you don't see 'Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys'

If you don't see 'Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys', you might be using a keyboard not made by Apple. These keyboards might need a utility to change the keyboard functions. Check with your keyboard manufacturer for more information.

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Mac

Mac Os Mojave

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Learn about using function keys on MacBook Pro with Touch Bar.