The following conventions are used to define syntax.
| Convention | Meaning |
| Italic text | Denotes a placeholder or variable. You must provide the actual value. For example, the statement SetCursorPos(X, Y) requires you to substitute values for the X and Y parameters. |
| [] | Enclose optional parameters. |
| | | Separates an either/or choice. |
| ... | Specifies that the preceding item may be repeated. |
| . | Represents an omitted portion of a sample application. |
| . | |
| . |
In addition, certain typographic conventions are used to help you understand this material.
| Convention | Meaning |
| SMALL CAPITALS | Indicates the names of keys, key sequences, and key combinations—for example, ALT+SPACEBAR. |
| FULL CAPITALS | Indicates most type and structure names, which are also bold, and constants. |
| monospace | Sets off code examples and shows syntax spacing. |