Keyboarding Basics

What we are going to be talking about

Ergonomics
The Keyboard
Proper Technique
Advantages to Proper Technique
When Proper Technique is Not Followed
Keyboarding Expectations for the Semester

Image from MS Office Clip Art

Ergonomics Definition

Ergonomics is the application of working

in a safe environment while on your
home PC or Laptop. Posture is very
important when it comes to working on
a computer.

Image from MS Office Clip Art

Tips for an Ergonomic Computer Workstation

Top

of monitor should be 2-3" above eye level

No glare should be apparent on screen
Sit at arms length from monitor about 2-3 feet
Feet flat on floor and not crossed
Wrists flat and straight in relation to forearms to
use keyboard/mouse/input device
Arms and elbows relaxed close to body
Center monitor and keyboard in front of you
Take frequent short breaks

The QWERTY KEYBOARD

The QWERTY keyboard was designed in the 1800s for mechanical
typewriters and was actually designed to slow typists down to avoid
jamming the keys. It was named after the first six keys on the keyboard.

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What Proper Technique Looks Like

Sit up straight
Feet flat on the floor
Arms near side and

wrists straight

Image from MS Office Clip Art

Proper Technique Details

Fingers on home row keys (MicroType)
Correct fingering (MicroType)
Eyes on copy
Reasonable Rhythm

Image from MS Office Clip Art

Proper Technique Details

Wrists off the keyboard
Fingers on home row keys - asdf jkl;

Image from MS Office Clip Art

Proper Technique Details

Right little finger on

Enter

Thumb used on space

bar

Technique Evaluation
TECHNIQUES DEMONSTRATED
Correct Body Position
1.
1.

1st

2nd

3rd

FINAL

Maintains proper distance from machine

and holds body in an upright position but
relaxed.
Feet anchored for balance

Correct Finger Position

1.

Keeps fingers curved, upright and in

keying position.

Correct Stroking
1.

Makes quick strokes with immediate key

release

1.

Uses correct finger for each key

1.

Uses shift key without pausing while other

fingers remain in position

1.

Uses enter key while maintaining even

stroking.
TOTAL

28

28

28

28

If Proper Technique is Followed

You will type faster.

You will make fewer mistakes.
You will be able to type longer without getting as

tired.
It will be less likely that you will have health
problems with your hands and wrists.

If Proper Technique is NOT Followed

You run the risk of developing a variety of health

problems that deal with your hands/wrists, back,

neck/shoulders, or eyes, and Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a repetitive strain injury
produced by making the same small movements
associated wit keyboarding.
It may take you longer to complete a task.
You may tire faster.

Keyboarding Expectations
In Computer Solutions, throughout the semester,

you will be learning and perfecting your keyboarding

skills. In order to do so you will complete the
following

Alphabetic Lessons in MicroType

Numeric Keyboarding Lessons in MicroType
Timed Writings
Technique Evaluations