To enter text, numbers, and other commands into a computer or other electronic device, a keyboard is used as an input device. The majority of keyboards are made up of a number of buttons or keys, each of which is marked with a symbol or letter that denotes a certain character or function.

There are many different styles and sizes of keyboards, including full-sized keyboards with numeric keypads, small keyboards without one, and ergonomic keyboards that are intended to relieve stress on the hands and wrists. Other features on certain keyboards may include multimedia keys, programmable keys, and lighted keys.

Most keyboards today use a standard layout called the QWERTY layout, which is named after the first six letters on the keyboard. The QWERTY layout was originally designed for typewriters and is still used on most keyboards today, although alternative layouts such as the Dvorak Simplified Keyboard have also been developed.