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Reference for Processing version 1.0.1+. If you have a previous version, use the reference included with your software. If you see any errors or have any comments, let us know.

Name

### keyPressed()

Examples

    // Click on the image to give it focus,
    // and then press any key

    int value = 0;

    void draw() {
      fill(value);
      rect(25, 25, 50, 50);
    }

    void keyPressed() {
      if (value == 0) {
        value = 255;
      } else {
        value = 0;
      }
    }

Description

The keyPressed() function is called once every time a key is pressed. The key that was pressed is stored in the key variable.
For non-ASCII keys, use the keyCode variable. The keys included in the ASCII specification (BACKSPACE, TAB, ENTER, RETURN, ESC, and DELETE) do not require checking to see if they key is coded, and you should simply use the key variable instead of keyCode If you're making cross-platform projects, note that the ENTER key is commonly used on PCs and Unix and the RETURN key is used instead on Macintosh. Check for both ENTER and RETURN to make sure your program will work for all platforms.
Because of how operating systems handle key repeats, holding down a key may cause multiple calls to keyPressed() (and keyReleased() as well). The rate of repeat is set by the operating system and how each computer is configured.

Syntax

    void keyPressed() {
      statements
    }

Returns | None
Usage | Web & Application
Related | keyPressed key keyCode keyReleased()

Updated on November 22, 2008 08:39:25pm PST