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A toggle key is a keyboard key that switches a function on or off with a single press, alternating between two distinct states. Common examples include Caps Lock, which toggles letter capitalization; Num Lock, which alternates the numeric keypad between number entry and cursor control; and Scroll Lock, which historically changed how the arrow keys behaved but has limited use in modern systems.

Common toggle keys

Caps Lock: When on, all typed letters are capitalized; when off, letters are lowercase.

Num Lock: On a standard keyboard, this enables the numeric keypad for entering numbers. When off, the keys on the keypad function as arrow keys and other navigation controls.

Scroll Lock: In older programs, this allowed the arrow keys to scroll the document without moving the active cell. In modern systems, its function is rarely supported, though it may have a specific purpose in certain applications like Microsoft Excel.

How they work: A single press activates a function, and a subsequent press deactivates it. Many keyboards have an indicator light to show the status of these keys when they are on. The term "toggle" also applies to software and other settings, where a button or control switches between two different options, like toggling Wi-Fi on or off.