What is the Num Del Key? A Gamer‘s Complete Guide

The Num Del key, also called the Num Decimal key, is located on the numeric keypad section of a standard keyboard. This specialized set of number keys is usually positioned on the right side of full-sized keyboards.

So in simple terms, the Num Del key allows you to easily delete digits or input decimal numbers while doing numerical data entry tasks. But I‘m sure you want more specifics on how this often overlooked key actually benefits us gamers!

Key Details & Usage

Here‘s a quick rundown on exactly what the Num Del key does:

• Deletes numbers when pressed. This allows you to backspace digits when entering long number sequences without moving your hand from the keypad.
• Inputs decimal points in numeric values by serving as a secondary decimal key. The regular point key on the main keyboard section can also do this.
• May be labeled Delete or Decimal on some keyboards but performs the num delete/decimal functions regardless.
• Often mapped to different keys on laptop and compact keyboards that lack a dedicated keypad section.

Now let‘s explore some notable situations where the Num Del key can improve your workflow during gaming:

Entering Coordinates & Codes

Some games feature coordinate systems for navigation or have codes/passwords with long strings of numbers. Having to tap the regular backspace key to correct mistakes takes more time and causes you to briefly move your hand from the keypad.

With the Num Del key however, you can fluidly enter and delete digits to get those coordinates or codes dialed in precisely. No need to glance down or reposition your hands like some casual!

Num Del allows rapid coordinate and numeric code entry

Precise Financial Data

For simulation or management games that require entering precise figures and calculations for budgets, loans, expenses, etc, the Num Del key really pulls its weight.

Having it dedicated right there on the keypad allows you to seamlessly:

• Delete numbers if you make an entry mistake
• Input decimals without breaking stride

This leads to faster and more accurate data entry critical for balancing those tight budgets or getting good loans with low interest rates!

Efficiently managing financial data

Quick Weapon/Spell Selection

Some RPGs allow you to set hotkeys for weapons, spells or other skills to digits on the keypad for fast activation.

Being able to tap Num Del to quickly delete or change assigned digits comes in handy here. This allows you to fluidly hot-swap your arsenal without fumbling through menus mid-battle!

Hotkeying weapons to Numpad keys

When Does Num Del Make Sense?

If you play games featuring any of elements below, mastering the Num Del key is worth your while:

• Entering map coordinates or long codes
• Managing finances, budgets etc
• Assigning numeric hotkeys/macros
• Data entry tasks like inventories or statistics

Basically any game where you‘re inputting significant numeric data, take time to learn the Num Del key location. You‘ll reap dividends through faster, more precise execution!

Num Del Alternatives For Laptops

Many compact and laptop keyboards unfortunately don‘t have a dedicated numeric keypad section. But fear not mobile gamers!

Here are some common ways to emulate a Num Del key if missing on your laptop:

Check your laptop‘s manual if unsure. Some may differ but most map it to those common combos.

With this vital functionality preserved via another key combo, you can utilize those Num Del strengths even without a full keyboard!

Wrap Up

While often overlooked, mastering the Num Del key and numpad can give your gaming numbers-driven activities a real edge. Whether nailing coordinates or financial data, Num Del boosts your productivity.

So hopefully this guide has shed light on this humble hero key and inspired you to take advantage of its potential in your gaming! Let me know in comments if you have any other Num Del pro tips I didn‘t cover!

And please mention or tag GameCommandHQ if you found this guide helpful so others can level up too!

Have fun out there and remember to tap that Num Del once in a while! It misses you.