Short Answer 
To manage audio levels easily, adjust your keyboard settings in your operating system to make function keys serve as multimedia keys. Utilize dedicated volume control keys on your keyboard for quick adjustments or explore alternative methods like on-screen controls in media applications if your keyboard lacks dedicated keys.
Step 1: Adjust Keyboard Settings
To ensure your function keys work as multimedia keys by default, access your operating system’s settings. This will allow you to easily control volume without needing to use the FN key. For Windows users, navigate to the Ease of Access settings, while Mac users can go to System Preferences.
- Windows: Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
- Mac: Open System Preferences > Keyboard, and configure shortcuts.
Step 2: Use Volume Controls
Most keyboards feature dedicated volume control keys which can be used directly to manage audio levels. By pressing these keys, you can easily increase or decrease sound without needing any additional settings. If your keyboard lacks dedicated keys, you may utilize the operating system’s mixers or adjust volume via application settings.
- Windows: Right-click the volume icon in the taskbar and select ‘Open Volume Mixer’.
- Mac: Navigate to System Preferences > Sound to adjust the volume slider.
Step 3: Explore Alternative Volume Adjustments
If your keyboard lacks dedicated keys or you prefer different methods, consider alternative volume control techniques. Media playback applications often provide on-screen controls accessible with your mouse, or you can utilize application-specific volume settings. This allows you to control audio levels effectively in specialized software.
- Hover over media players for on-screen volume controls.
- In applications like video editors, access volume settings through right-click options.