What are project keys in Jira Software?

Project keys in Jira Software are short versions of project names. Each project key serves as a unique identifier for a project within the system, making it easier for users to reference and manage issues related to that particular project. This key is typically a combination of letters, often derived from the project’s name, and is prefixed to issue identifiers, creating a straightforward way to categorize and distinguish between different projects.

For example, if a project is named "Customer Support," the project key could be something simple like "CS". When issues are created, they would be labeled as "CS-1", "CS-2", etc. This format allows for a quick grasp of which project an issue belongs to just by looking at its key, enhancing both organization and efficiency in project management. The other options do not accurately describe the function or purpose of project keys within Jira.