[by default]
to switch to and between consoles:
ctrl+alt+Fn
where n is 1 to 8
9 will switch to X
to switch between consoles
alt+Fn
where n is 1 to 8
9 will switch to X
i suggest you just use gterminal [or what was name of gnome terminal, i don't remember, i use xterm] in X
you can also ssh to you pc from another pc, for that you need to configure and enable OpenSSH, this way you can use pc while your evil little sister [joking] is in front of screen with mouse and keyboard at fingertips chatting with her friends