The backspace key on a computer keyboard moves the cursor back one space and deletes characters or spaces in word processing programs. It has a secondary function of erasing and correcting mistakes. The key was originally used to move the carriage holding paper back one space on typewriters. It is located in the upper right corner of the letter section of a standard keyboard and is often used for other functions in different programs.
Backspace is a key that can be found on most standard computer keyboards, which typically performs a number of functions depending on the program being used when the key is pressed. In word processing programs, it will typically move the cursor back one space and delete any characters or spaces that may be present at that location. This is in contrast to the delete key which will usually not move the cursor at all, but will delete any character immediately following the cursor position. Backspace can also be used in programs to help navigate back through a folder or web page.
Sometimes called the “Rubout key,” the backspace key is a key that continues to be found on computer keyboards even though its traditional purpose on a manual typewriter was somewhat different. On a typewriter keyboard, the backspace key traditionally moves the carriage holding the paper back one space, but does not perform any sort of correction or erasure. This was often used to add overstrike symbols, such as the accent marks that appear on certain letters in various languages. By pressing the key, the typewriter user could move the carriage back to a letter they have already typed, then type another letter or symbol that would be placed in the same space.
On a modern computer keyboard, the backspace key continues to perform a similar function, although it has also taken on a secondary function. When pressed, this function will not only move the cursor back one space on the page of a word processing or similar text document, but it will also erase anything that might be in that space. This allows you to use the key for corrective purposes, as well as moving the cursor. The traditional feature of the backspace key for moving the cursor without correction can usually be accomplished through the use of arrow keys found on computer keyboards but absent on typewriters.
The backspace is usually found in the upper right corner of the letter section of a standard computer keyboard, after the numbers and the plus and minus symbols. It is usually referred to by its full name, or a similar term such as “delete”, and is often accompanied by an arrow pointing backwards. Many other programs also use the backspace key for other functions. When browsing a file system on a computer, for example, the key will often take the user to the previous file, while in a web browser it will typically return the browser to a previous page.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
