On a standard computer keyboard, which key do you press so that the numeric keypad keys act as directional arrows and navigation keys instead of numbers?

Introduction / Context:
This question deals with basic keyboard operation and is common in computer literacy exams. Many desktop and some laptop keyboards include a numeric keypad on the right side. This keypad can operate either as number keys for fast numeric entry or as a set of directional arrows and other navigation keys. The function that switches between these two modes is controlled by a specific lock key on the keyboard.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The focus is on the number pad or numeric keypad.
• The question asks how to make the keys act as directional arrows.
• Options include Num Lock, Caps Lock, Arrow Lock, Shift and Scroll Lock.
• We assume a standard extended keyboard layout.

Concept / Approach:
The Num Lock key, short for Number Lock, toggles the numeric keypad between numeric entry mode and cursor control mode. When Num Lock is on, the keys produce numbers. When Num Lock is off, many of the same keys act as navigation keys such as arrows, page up, page down, home and end. Caps Lock affects letters, not the numeric keypad. Arrow Lock is not a standard key. Shift is a modifier key and Scroll Lock has different specialised uses.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that the numeric keypad has numbers printed on the keys and also small arrow or navigation symbols in one corner. Step 2: On most keyboards there is a Num Lock key with an indicator light that shows whether numeric input is enabled. Step 3: When Num Lock is turned on, pressing the keys produces digits such as 1, 2 or 3. Step 4: When Num Lock is turned off, those keys function as arrow keys and navigation keys like home and end. Step 5: Therefore, to make the number pad act as directional arrows, you must turn Num Lock off by pressing the Num Lock key. Step 6: Caps Lock only affects whether letters are uppercase or lowercase and does not change the behaviour of the numeric keypad. Step 7: Arrow Lock is not a common key on standard keyboards and is included as a distractor. Step 8: Shift modifies keys temporarily but does not toggle the basic mode of the numeric keypad. Step 9: Scroll Lock historically affects how arrow keys interact with scrolling in some programs, not how the numeric keypad toggles between numbers and arrows.

Verification / Alternative check:
If you have access to a physical desktop keyboard, you can test this behaviour. Press Num Lock so that its light is on and then press a numeric keypad key; you will see numbers appear. Press Num Lock again so that the light is off and press the same key in a text editor; the cursor will move instead of numbers being typed. This simple test confirms that Num Lock is the key that switches between numeric and directional modes.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Caps Lock has no effect on the numeric keypad and only toggles capital letters for alphabetic keys. Arrow Lock does not exist on typical keyboards and is therefore not the correct answer. Shift is a temporary modifier that changes characters but does not change the fundamental mode of the numeric keypad. Scroll Lock is used rarely and does not convert the number pad into directional keys in the way described.

Common Pitfalls:
One common source of confusion occurs when Num Lock is off and users think the numeric keypad is broken because it does not type numbers. Understanding that Num Lock controls this behaviour prevents unnecessary troubleshooting. In exams, students sometimes rush and choose Caps Lock whenever the word lock appears. To avoid this, always connect the lock key to what it actually controls: numbers for Num Lock, letters for Caps Lock.

Final Answer:
To make the number pad act as directional arrows, you press the Num Lock key to toggle its mode.