Which of the following are considered special purpose keys on a keyboard?

Special purpose keys on a keyboard are those that perform specific functions beyond merely typing characters or numbers. These keys generally modify the action of other keys or access specialized features of the computer system.

The correct choice includes CTRL (Control), ALT (Alternate), and ESC (Escape), which all serve special functions:

• The CTRL key is often used in combination with other keys to perform commands, such as copying (CTRL+C) or pasting (CTRL+V).

• The ALT key can be used to access menu options or execute commands when combined with other keys, such as ALT+F4 to close an application.

• The ESC key is primarily used to cancel operations or exit modes, making it a special key for controlling processes.

In contrast, the other options include keys that are primarily character keys or function letters rather than special keys designed primarily for command or control functionalities. SHIFT, SPACE, and ENTER, while useful, are generally used for inputting characters rather than modifying commands or operations in the same way that CTRL, ALT, and ESC do.