Each key replicates the function of the corresponding key in the main

keyboard, with the added advantage that +, , *, / and # may be obtained

directly (i.e. without the use of .

The cursor control / editing keys

Under normal circumstances, the screen will show a flashing symbol known as

the cursor; it indicates the position at which the next character to be typed will

be displayed. The cursor moves one character position to the right for each

normal key depression, one character position to the left for each depression of

and to the start of a new line for each depression of .

The four arrowed cursor control keys may be used to move the cursor around

the screen and it will be seen from later chapters that this facility is

fundamental to the use of VIEW.

has a special function in each of the above but it is also used in

conjunction with the cursor control keys for cursor editing -- a technique

mainly used during the input and correction of programs and which is

described on page C7.

The function keys f0 - f9

In certain applications, such as VIEW, it is convenient to make use of a single

key depression to denote a particular action and the 10 red function keys across

the top of the main keyboard are provided for this purpose. Each key may be

used on its own, in conjunction with , or, indeed, +,

giving a total of 40 additional keyboard functions. In these cases, it is usual to

show the function invoked by each type of depression on a special keyboard

insert, such as those supplied with your computer.

In addition, the function keys may be 'programmed' to produce a sequence of

one or more characters, thereby minimising the number of keystrokes required

to carry out frequently used tasks. A brief description of function key

programming is given in the next section and full instructions (including the

way in which the cursor control keys, and the numeric keypad can be

programmed) are contained in the Master Series Reference Manual.

The screen display

This section introduces the various screen displays that are available and gives

you an opportunity to try out your newly-acquired keyboard skills. For the time

being, however, do not worry about the meaning of what you are asked to type

but concentrate on pressing the correct keys. If you type a line incorrectly (i.e.

you press before you spot the mistake), the computer will respond with

a simple message, such as:

A 8