The special function keys on ThinkPad laptops are a quick way to navigate your computer
without having to click through multiple menus.
In order to utilize the special functions, make sure that the “Fn Lock” is not active.
Hold down the Fn key and press ESC to toggle the “Fn lock” on and off.
Audio controls are found on the F1 through F4 keys.
F1 mutes and unmutes audio, F2 lowers speaker volume, F3 increases speaker volume, and the
F4 key mutes and unmutes the microphone.
The F5 and F6 keys control your display’s brightness.
F5 lowers brightness, while F6 increases brightness.
If you are using an external monitor for working or giving a presentation, you can use the
F7 key to access options to manage the external display.
The F8 Key activates airplane mode on your computer.
To turn airplane mode off, simply press the F8 key again.
Use the F9 key to access your computer’s settings faster than navigating through the
Windows menu.
The F10 key toggles Bluetooth on and off.
F11 opens the keyboard settings page, which includes a map of hidden Fn key functions
and other keyboard preferences.
The F12 key invokes a user-defined function.
To set the function for the F12 key, select “Open Applications or Files,” “Open
Website,” “Invoke Key Sequence,” or “Enter Text” within the keyboard settings
page.
There are several useful hidden Fn key functions for common tasks.
Hold the Fn key and press spacebar to change the keyboard backlight.
Hold the Fn key and press the 4 key to put your computer to sleep.
Hold the Fn key and press the Print Screen key to open the Snipping Tool for taking screenshots.
These special functions make navigating your ThinkPad easier and more efficient.
Try them out and see which work best for you.