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The return (red circle on the left) and enter (green circle on the right) keys on a keyboard

On computer keyboards, the enter key ⌅ Enter and return key ↵ Return are two closely related keys with overlapping and distinct functions dependent on operating system and application.

Functions

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The return key has its origins in two typewriter functions: carriage return, which would reset the carriage to the beginning of the line of text, and line feed, which would advance the paper one line downward. These were often combined into a single return key, a convention that continues in modern computer word processing to insert a paragraph break (¶).[1]

An OK button which can be invoked by pressing a return key, or possibly an enter key

The enter key is a computer innovation, which in most cases causes the active user interface to operate its default function.

On modern computers both keys generally have all the functions of the other, allowing for either key to be used, or even for them to be combined into a single key, as is the case with most laptops. Microsoft Windows makes no distinction between them whatsoever,[citation needed] and usually both keys are labelled as enter on Windows keyboards with the United States layout. Other operating systems, such as Apple's Darwin-based operating systems, generally treat them equivalently while still maintaining the technical and descriptive distinction, allowing applications to treat the two keys differently if necessary.

Location

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Return (red) and Enter (green) keys highlighted on the ANSI United States layout (top) and ISO British layout (bottom).

The enter key is typically located to the right of the 3 and . keys on the lower right of the numeric keypad, while the return key is situated on the right edge of the main alphanumeric portion of the keyboard. On ISO and JIS keyboards, return is a stepped double-height key spanning the second and third rows, below ⌫ Backspace and above the right-hand ⇧ Shift.[3] On ANSI keyboards it is wider but located on the third row only, as the backslash \ key is located between it and ⌫ Backspace.

An example of a non-standard double-height ANSI return key on the NeXTstation keyboard (alongside several other non-standard elements)

Some variants of the ANSI keyboard layout create a double-height return key by subsuming the backslash \ key into it. This alternate form is most popular in Asia. However, this requires the relocation of the backslash key and is relatively uncommon on modern keyboards elsewhere.[4]

Keyboard symbols

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Apple Pro keyboard, showing symbols on the return key and, on the number pad, the enter key

The return key symbol is U+23CE RETURN SYMBOL, an arrow pointing down and leftward; however, rendering of the symbol varies greatly by typeface, with it appearing hollow in some or with an additional initial rightward bar in others. For this reason, U+21B5 DOWNWARDS ARROW WITH CORNER LEFTWARDS or U+21A9 LEFTWARDS ARROW WITH HOOK are sometimes used instead.[5] On most ISO and other keyboards worldwide the return key is labelled solely with the symbol across all platforms. Meanwhile, on ANSI US keyboards it is labelled as ↵ Enter by Windows OEMs (sometimes even without the return symbol) and as return by Apple.[6]

For enter, U+2386 ENTER SYMBOL exists in Unicode for the ISO 9995-7 enter key symbol;[7] however, it is infrequently used, one example being the French Canadian keyboard.[8] Windows keyboards worldwide tend to simply label the key with the text ↵ Enter, while Apple uses the symbol (U+2324 UP ARROWHEAD BETWEEN TWO HORIZONTAL BARS[9] or U+2305 PROJECTIVE) on ISO and JIS keyboards and the text ⌅ enter on ANSI US keyboards;[10] this is acknowledged by an annotation "enter key" on U+2324 in the Unicode code chart.[7]

History

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The Commodore 64 (released in 1982) had only the "return" key.

On IBM's 3270 and 5250 line of terminals, the Enter key was located to the right of the space bar and was used to send the contents of the terminal's buffer to the host computer. The Return key was located in a more standard location and was used to generate a new line.

Apple also took advantage of this situation to create an editable command line environment called a "Worksheet" in the Macintosh Programmer's Workshop, where return was used strictly as a formatting key while enter was used to execute a shell command or series of commands in direct mode. This strict dichotomy has since been relaxed, so that now there are very few situations within macOS where enter and return are not equivalent.

One example of this continued division of use is the type tool in Adobe Photoshop, where the return key produces a new line while the enter key ends editing mode. Another is Mathematica, where the Return key creates a new line, while the Enter key (or Shift-Return) submits the current command for execution.

Historically, many computer models did not have a separate keypad, and only had one button to function as Enter or Return. For example, the Commodore 64 (manufactured from 1982) had only the "Return" key. Most laptop computers continue in this combined tradition.

Before computers, on electric typewriters the "Return" key was kept comparatively large. This is due to the frequency of usage (including the space bar) and is therefore kept large to reduce the likelihood of finger slips.[citation needed]

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Enter key, also known as the Return key, is a standard key on computer keyboards used to execute commands, submit forms, or insert a new line in text editing and input fields. It typically performs actions such as navigating to a typed in web browsers, confirming in applications, or advancing to the next line in word processors. The key's design and labeling vary across keyboard layouts, with some featuring an inverted L-shape for larger surface area, particularly on full-sized models, while compact keyboards may use a vertical or horizontal rectangular form. The Enter key traces its origins to the mechanical mechanism of 19th-century typewriters, which reset the printing carriage to the beginning of a line and advanced the paper. Early typewriters, such as the Sholes and Glidden model introduced in 1873, used a foot pedal or hand for this function; this evolved into a dedicated key with the electrification of typewriters in the 1940s and 1950s, influencing the transition to computer keyboards in the and . In the computing era, the key's dual emerged with platform-specific conventions: IBM's PC keyboards from the early 1980s labeled it "Enter" to denote command submission, while Apple systems retained "Return" to emphasize line advancement. This distinction persists today, though the keys often share identical functions across operating systems like Windows, macOS, and , where pressing Enter typically generates a (ASCII 13), often combined with line feed (ASCII 10) as a depending on the system, or executes the primary action in context. Modern standards, including those in , define the Enter key as signaling the next user action, such as form submission or search initiation, ensuring cross-device consistency.

Overview

Definition and Purpose

The Enter key is a fundamental component of computer keyboards, designed to signal the completion of a line of text or the execution of a command by advancing the cursor to the beginning of the next line or initiating a specified action. Also known as the Return key, it serves as the primary means for users to finalize input without needing to use a mouse or additional keystrokes for navigation. While the terms "Enter" and "Return" are often used interchangeably, they can refer to distinct keys on certain keyboard layouts, such as those with a numeric keypad where the taller key is labeled Enter and the main alphanumeric one is labeled Return, though both typically perform similar functions in most applications. The primary purpose of the Enter key is to streamline user interaction in text-based and graphical interfaces by providing a direct method to end an input sequence, such as confirming in forms or separating paragraphs in documents. This functionality enhances efficiency, allowing users to progress through tasks seamlessly, whether in word processing, command-line environments, or dialog boxes. By pressing Enter, users avoid the need for alternative navigation tools, making it an essential element for accessibility and productivity in computing. At its core, the mechanics of the Enter key involve transmitting a specific in the ASCII standard: the (CR), represented by 13 ( 0D). This signal instructs the system to return the cursor to the start of the following line, emulating the behavior of typewriters. In some operating systems, such as Windows, this may combine with a line feed (LF, ASCII 10) to form a sequence, but the key itself primarily generates the CR .

Role in User Interfaces

In command-line interfaces (CLIs), the Enter key serves as the primary mechanism for executing typed commands, signaling the end of input and initiating processing by the shell or interpreter. For instance, in Unix-like systems such as Bash, users enter a command followed by arguments and press Enter to run it, which sends a newline character to the shell for execution. Similarly, in Microsoft's Command Prompt and PowerShell, pressing Enter after typing a command or cmdlet triggers its execution, enabling efficient workflow in terminal environments. On macOS Terminal, the Return key (equivalent to Enter) performs this function, executing tools or scripts after entering their pathnames and parameters. This consistent behavior across platforms streamlines command execution, reducing reliance on mouse interactions and supporting automation in scripting. In graphical user interfaces (GUIs), the Enter key facilitates confirmation of user selections and actions within dialogs, enhancing intuitive navigation and decision-making. On Windows, it activates the default button in modal or modeless dialog boxes, such as OK or Yes, thereby processing the user's input without requiring a mouse click. For example, in a file deletion confirmation dialog, pressing Enter after focusing the affirmative option completes the operation. On macOS, the Return key performs an analogous role, triggering the primary or default action button in sheets and alerts, as outlined in Apple's Human Interface Guidelines, which emphasize its use for safe, affirming actions. This integration promotes efficient task completion in applications like web browsers or productivity software, where Enter confirms form submissions or dialog closures. Accessibility features extend the Enter key's utility by accommodating diverse user needs, including mappings to alternative inputs for those with disabilities. Under (WCAG) 2.1, keyboard-operable interfaces require Enter to activate focused interactive elements, such as buttons or links, ensuring full functionality without a for users with motor impairments. Voice control systems, like Microsoft's Voice Access, allow users to simulate Enter by verbal commands (e.g., saying "Enter" to submit text or activate controls), bridging gaps for individuals with limited physical mobility. Adaptive hardware, such as switch interfaces or large-key keyboards, often remaps physical switches to emulate Enter, enabling activation of commands or confirmations for users with severe motor challenges, as seen in devices like the or proximity switches. These adaptations foster inclusive workflows, aligning CLI and GUI interactions with broader standards.

Functions

Text and Line Management

In most text editors and command-line interfaces, pressing the Enter key inserts a character or sequence, advancing the cursor to the beginning of the next line. On Windows systems, this typically adds a followed by a line feed (CR+LF, ASCII codes 13 and 10), while on systems such as and macOS, it inserts only a line feed (LF, ASCII code 10). This behavior ensures compatibility with platform-specific file formats and display conventions. In word processors like , the Enter key creates a new rather than a simple line break, applying default paragraph spacing and formatting to the subsequent text. This distinguishes it from Shift+Enter, which inserts a soft line break within the same without adding extra spacing. Similarly, in , pressing Enter generates a new with associated styling, while Shift+Enter produces a line break that maintains the current 's properties. These mechanisms support structured document creation by separating content into logical blocks. The Enter key's function varies between single-line and multi-line input fields in user interfaces, particularly in web forms. In single-line elements like HTML , it often triggers form submission or default actions rather than inserting a newline. In contrast, multi-line elements such as

Form Submission and Commands

In web forms, the Enter key serves as a standard mechanism for implicit submission, where pressing it while focused on a text input field triggers the form to send data to the server, provided the form contains a submit button and no other elements block the action. This behavior aligns with platform conventions in browsers, allowing users to complete and submit forms efficiently without additional clicks, as long as the input is of a type that supports it, such as text or search fields. Developers can override this default via event handlers if needed, but the implicit submission remains the baseline for and in documents. In command-line terminals and integrated development environments (IDEs), the Enter key executes entered commands or queries, finalizing input and initiating processing. For instance, in shells such as Bash, pressing Enter invokes the Readline library's accept-line function, which interprets and runs the current command line if non-empty. Similarly, in SQL editors within IDEs like , combinations involving Enter—such as Ctrl+Enter—execute the focused query statement against the database, returning results in a dedicated pane. This execution role distinguishes the key's function in interactive shells from its text manipulation uses, emphasizing action completion over content insertion. Software applications often allow custom key mappings that repurpose the Enter key for specialized commands, including compiling code in IDEs. In tools like , users can rebind Enter through the Keyboard Shortcuts editor to trigger builds or runs, overriding defaults like line insertion for workflow efficiency; for example, mapping it to the "Tasks: Run Task" action for compilation. Such configurations are common in development environments to streamline repetitive tasks, though they require explicit setup in preference files or UI settings to avoid conflicts with standard behaviors.

Design and Layout

Physical Placement

On full-size keyboards following the ANSI standard, the Enter key is positioned on the right side of the main alphanumeric section, directly above the right and below the key, forming a wide horizontal rectangular shape that spans approximately two key widths. In contrast, full-size keyboards following the ISO standard feature an L-shaped Enter key, which extends vertically to encompass the space of two keys. This placement aligns it with the natural reach of the right hand's pinky or , facilitating frequent use without disrupting flow. In compact keyboard layouts, such as 60% designs that omit the number pad and function row to reduce overall size, the Enter key is typically smaller than its full-size counterpart to conserve space while maintaining accessibility. Some variations in these layouts adopt an L-shaped Enter key, combining the standard horizontal bar with an additional vertical extension to the left, which helps integrate it efficiently into the tighter grid without sacrificing . The ergonomic rationale for this positioning emphasizes minimizing finger travel and during prolonged sessions, as the Enter key's on the right periphery allows quick activation by the dominant hand's outer fingers, reducing the need for awkward stretches or shifts in hand position. This design principle supports neutral wrist and forearm postures, contributing to overall reduced musculoskeletal stress in repetitive tasks.

Symbols and Representations

The Enter key is visually represented across keyboard standards primarily through arrow-based symbols that evoke the action of moving to a new line or submitting input. The most common symbol is ↵, the downwards with corner leftwards ( U+21B5), which denotes both the Enter and Return functions and appears on many modern keyboards, keycaps, and user interface documentation. Another frequent representation is ⏎, the return symbol ( U+23CE), often used to indicate the key's role in line advancement, particularly in technical diagrams and software interfaces. Additionally, the enter symbol ⎆ ( U+2386), featuring three horizontal lines intersected by a right-pointing , serves as a UI for the enter operation in keyboards and digital documentation. On Apple Mac keyboards, the key is labeled "Return" and commonly symbolized by ↵ (U+21B5) or ↩ (U+21A9), distinguishing it from the numeric keypad's Enter key, which may use ⌤ (U+2324). These symbols align with broader keyboard conventions, where the bent arrow ↵ emphasizes the carriage return motion, while the return symbol ⏎ highlights the key's textual function. The labeling of the key has evolved from "Return," prevalent on early computer models influenced by mechanics, to "Enter," which became the standard with the introduced in 1981, reflecting a shift toward command execution in personal computing interfaces. This transition is evident in hardware documentation, where IBM's 83-key layout explicitly marked the key as "Enter" to signify data submission..jpg) representations like U+2386 are now standardized for cross-platform use in software, ensuring consistent depiction in APIs, help files, and accessibility guidelines.

Historical Development

Typewriter Origins

The origins of the Enter key trace back to the mechanical of the , where it functioned primarily as a "" mechanism designed to advance the and reset the typing position. In these early devices, typing occurred on a that moved horizontally across the , with each keystroke imprinting a character via typebars striking an inked ribbon against the wrapped around a platen. At the end of a line, the operator activated the to shift the upward by one line and return the to its starting position, enabling continuous writing without manual repositioning. This innovation addressed the limitations of and earlier aids, streamlining document production for commercial and clerical use. The foundational model incorporating this mechanism was developed by American inventor , in collaboration with Carlos Glidden and Samuel W. Soulé, culminating in the Sholes and Glidden Type Writer patented in 1873. Sholes, a editor and machinist from , , began prototyping typewriters in the late 1860s, drawing inspiration from existing mechanisms like those in s and printing presses to create a practical writing device. Their 1873 design featured an up-strike mechanism where typebars pivoted upward to print on the underside of the platen, and it marked the first commercially viable typewriter with a dedicated . In 1873, Sholes sold the patent rights to , a firearms and manufacturer, which refined and produced the machine as the Remington No. 1 starting in 1874, with approximately 1,000 units initially manufactured. Mechanically, the carriage return in the 1873 Sholes model operated via a foot , influenced by sewing machine pedals, which the operator pressed to return the spring-loaded to the right margin while advancing the paper. This engaged a ratchet system on the platen—a cylindrical roller—to rotate it precisely one line space, ensuring even spacing, while a release mechanism disengaged the that controlled incremental movement during typing. The foot-operated design, however, proved cumbersome and was quickly superseded in Remington's production by a hand-operated mounted on the itself, which performed the same dual function of return and line feed through a linked and gear assembly for smoother, more efficient operation. This mechanism became a standard feature, relying on mechanical linkages to minimize operator effort and maintain alignment.

Computer Keyboard Evolution

The transition of the Enter key from mechanical typewriters to electronic occurred primarily during the and 1970s, as data entry devices evolved to interface with mainframe computers through electrical signals rather than physical movements. In early electronic terminals, such as the IBM 2260 display station introduced in 1964, keyboards began incorporating keys that sent digital commands to the host system, marking a shift from local mechanical actions to remote data transmission. By 1971, the terminal family further advanced this adaptation, featuring an Enter key that electronically submitted the entire screen buffer to the mainframe for processing, distinct from any mechanical . This key, positioned prominently on the keyboard, generated a control signal to initiate data transfer, enabling efficient interaction in block-mode operations where the terminal locked until host response. Building on these developments, the 1980s personal computer era saw the standardization of the Enter key's role and nomenclature, particularly through industry-wide adoption of layout specifications that distinguished it from the traditional Return function. The (ANSI) formalized keyboard arrangements in INCITS 154-1988, defining a 101- or 104-key layout where the Enter key served as the primary mechanism for line termination and command execution, positioned as a horizontal bar to the right of the main alphanumeric keys. Similarly, the (ISO) established the ISO/IEC 9995 series beginning in 1994, outlining compatible layouts that preserved the Enter key's function for data submission while accommodating regional variations in shape, such as the L-shaped ISO Enter versus the rectangular ANSI version. These standards ensured interoperability across PC systems from manufacturers like and , solidifying the Enter key's dual role in text input and interface navigation during the rise of and early graphical environments. In early operating systems like , introduced in 1981, the Enter key's interactions with modifiers such as Shift introduced nuanced behaviors for handling line feeds, reflecting adaptations from terminal protocols to support precise text manipulation. Pressing Enter typically generated a (CR) followed by a line feed (LF) for standard operations in command prompts and editors.

Variations and Modern Uses

Keyboard Layout Differences

The Enter key exhibits notable variations across international keyboard layouts, primarily between the ANSI standard prevalent in the United States and the ISO standard used in the United Kingdom and much of Europe. In the ANSI layout, the Enter key is a horizontal rectangle, measuring approximately 2.25 units wide and 1 unit tall, positioned directly below the backslash key. In contrast, the ISO layout features a taller, L-shaped Enter key that spans two rows: a 1.25-unit-wide bottom section and a 1-unit-wide top section, creating an inverted L form that extends vertically for easier thumb access. This design difference affects keycap compatibility, as ANSI and ISO Enter keys are not interchangeable due to their distinct shapes and sizes. European variants, such as the French AZERTY layout, adhere to the ISO standard, incorporating the same L-shaped Enter key while rearranging alphanumeric keys for accented characters common in French. Similarly, the German QWERTZ layout uses the ISO Enter configuration. In non-Latin scripts, the Japanese JIS layout features a J-shaped Enter key, adapted to accommodate input modes without altering the key's core function or position relative to the numeric row. The Dvorak simplified keyboard layout, an alternative to , does not modify the Enter key's shape; it retains the physical form of the underlying ANSI or ISO base layout while remapping letter positions for efficiency. Specialized keyboards further diversify Enter key implementations to suit user needs. Gaming keyboards often favor the larger ISO-style Enter key for its broader surface area, reducing mispresses during rapid inputs, and some models include programmable macros assigned to an oversized Enter for quick command execution. Ergonomic split keyboards, designed to minimize wrist strain, typically relocate the Enter key to thumb clusters on one or both halves, allowing dual placement for balanced hand usage; for instance, the Kinesis Advantage360 positions Enter on the inner thumb key of each side to distribute load away from the pinky finger. These adaptations maintain the Enter key's role in line termination and submission while optimizing for comfort and precision in targeted applications.

Digital and Touch Interfaces

In digital interfaces, the Enter key's functionality has adapted to touch-based virtual keyboards prevalent on smartphones and tablets. On devices, the onscreen keyboard features a Return key positioned at the bottom right, which inserts a new line in text editors or acts as a submission mechanism in forms and messaging apps, dynamically changing to a "Send" or "Go" label based on context. Similarly, Android virtual keyboards like include an Enter or action key that performs line breaks or confirms input, with its icon adapting to the application—such as an for navigation or a checkmark for completion. These adaptations prioritize touch , reducing the need for precise tapping by enlarging the key relative to physical counterparts. Gestural alternatives complement dedicated buttons in virtual keyboards, enhancing efficiency on mobile devices. For instance, swipe-up gestures on certain keyboards, such as , allow quick access to secondary functions like numbers or symbols, while the primary submission remains tied to the action key; however, in integrated apps, a full swipe-up from the keyboard can trigger form submission in streamlined interfaces. On tablets with larger screens, expanded virtual layouts often split the keyboard to include a persistent Enter equivalent, supporting for simultaneous input and confirmation without obscuring content. Software emulations extend the Enter key's role in non-traditional environments like remote desktops and (VR) interfaces. In remote desktop applications such as Remote Desktop for mobile, the maps the Enter function to a tappable , often paired with haptic feedback to simulate physical keypress confirmation, ensuring seamless control of distant systems. In VR setups, mid-air incorporate pseudo-haptic feedback—where visual cues like key depression combine with controller vibrations—to represent Enter presses, improving typing accuracy and immersion without physical hardware. These emulations rely on device accelerometers and gyroscopes to detect gestures, translating swipes or pinches into Enter actions for applications like immersive productivity tools. Emerging trends in AI-assisted inputs are influencing digital interfaces, with predictive text and auto-completion in virtual keyboards proactively suggesting insertions or actions based on context, potentially reducing reliance on explicit Enter presses in some scenarios, though the key persists for critical confirmations. In voice-to-text systems, users can employ voice commands to manage outputs, serving as an alternative in fluid workflows. This evolution aims to balance efficiency with user control in hybrid interactions.

References

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