In computing, a modifier key is a special key on a computer keyboard that modifies the normal action of another key when the two are pressed in combination.
For example, Alt+F4 in Microsoft Windows will close the program in the active window; in this instance, Alt is the modifier key. In contrast, pressing just F4 will probably do nothing unless assigned a specific function in a particular program. By themselves, modifier keys usually do nothing; that is, pressing Alt alone does not trigger any action from the computer.
User interface expert Jef Raskin coined the term "quasimode" to describe the state a computer enters into when a modifier key is pressed.
Read more about Modifier Key: Modifier Keys On Typewriters, Modifier Keys On Personal Computers, Dual-role Modifier Keys, Gaming Issue
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