The “Alt” key, short for “Alternate,” is a key commonly found on computer keyboards. Like the Ctrl key, the Alt key is used in combination with other keys to trigger special commands or functions. The Alt key is typically located on either side of the spacebar on a standard computer keyboard.
On Windows-based systems, the Alt key is often used as a modifier key in combination with other keys to access menu commands, perform keyboard shortcuts, switch between windows or applications, and navigate through dialog boxes or menus. For example, pressing Alt+F4 on Windows will typically close the currently active window or application.
On macOS systems, the “Alt” key is referred to as the “Option” key. The Option key is typically located on either side of the spacebar on a standard Mac keyboard and is used in combination with other keys to trigger special commands or functions.