How to use the fn key on a Mac

The fn (Function) key on a Mac is small and easy to overlook, but it unlocks several powerful shortcuts and features. Whether you’re switching keyboard behaviour, accessing hidden commands, or using function keys like a pro, understanding the fn key can save you time and frustration.

Here’s how it works and when to use it.

What is the fn key?

The fn key is typically located in the bottom-left corner of the Mac keyboard. Its primary role is to modify how other keys behave, especially the function keys (F1–F12).

By default, Mac function keys control system features like brightness, volume, and media playback. The fn key lets you temporarily or permanently change that behaviour.

Use fn to access standard function keys (F1–F12)

If your Mac is set up to control system features by default:

• Press fn + F1, fn + F2, etc. to use the standard function keys
• This is useful for:
• Coding and development tools
• Excel and other productivity apps
• Games and legacy software

Example: press fn + F5 to refresh in some apps instead of adjusting keyboard brightness.

Show the emoji & symbols picker

One of the most popular uses of the fn key:

• Press fn (or fn + E on some keyboards) to open the Emoji & Symbols viewer

From here, you can insert:

• Emojis
• Special characters
• Maths symbols
• Currency symbols

This works in most apps, including Mail, Messages, Notes, and browsers.

Use fn for dictation (if enabled)

On supported Macs:

• Press fn twice to start Dictation
• Start speaking, and macOS will type for you

You can turn this on or off in: System Settings → Keyboard → Dictation

Switch function key behaviour (optional setting)

If you prefer using F1–F12 as standard function keys all the time:

1. Open System Settings
2. Go to Keyboard
3. Enable “Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys”

Once enabled:

• Press F1–F12 for app shortcuts
• Hold fn to access brightness, volume, and media controls instead

Use fn with arrow keys for navigation

In many apps, fn acts like navigation keys on extended keyboards:

• fn + Left Arrow → Move to beginning of line
• fn + Right Arrow → Move to end of line
• fn + Up Arrow → Page Up
• fn + Down Arrow → Page Down

This is especially helpful on compact Mac keyboards.

Final Tip

The fn key may not look important, but it quietly powers many of macOS’s most useful shortcuts. Whether you’re typing faster, navigating text, or unlocking function keys, learning how and when to use fn can noticeably improve your Mac workflow.