The Esc key is used to initiate an escape sequence when using a software application. In plain English, it just means 'stop doing something'. It is a short cut for No, Quit, Exit, Cancel or Abort.
So, when you are stuck in a program, or you want to stop what you are doing, hit the Esc key.
Esc is also known to stand for 'extra services control' - not escape, but the intent is the same.
If hitting Esc does not work, try holding down the Alt, Control and Delete keys simultaneously to shut down your applications.
It also takes you to Task Manager, which shows you all the applications that are running and you can then stop the one that is stuck or not responding.
This story was first published in The Straits Times Digital Life.
