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⌨️ Lesson: Type the Backslash (\)

The backslash (\) is typed with \. Use your right pinky — no Shift needed. These 4 exercises take it from a single tap to real-world uses, with a live keyboard showing the exact fingers.

How to Type the Backslash (\) Correctly

The backslash — also called back slash, reverse solidus — lives on the top row of a standard US keyboard. Tap the \ key with your right pinky — no Shift needed. It sits above Enter, far right on the top row. Reach with your right pinky.

The backslash separates Windows folder paths and begins escape codes such as \n in programming. Practising it now means you can type it without looking down when you meet it in emails, code, passwords or documents.

Note: keys can move on non-US layouts (UK, German, French and others), so if the symbol does not appear, check that your keyboard language is set to US English.

How do you type the backslash (\) on a keyboard?

Press the \ key with your right pinky. No Shift is needed.

Which finger types the backslash (\)?

Your right pinky types the \ key. It does not need Shift.

What is the backslash (\) used for?

The backslash separates Windows folder paths and begins escape codes such as \n in programming.

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