Keyboarding Basics

Image from MS Office Clip Art

ErgonomicsThe KeyboardProper TechniqueAdvantages to Proper TechniqueWhen Proper Technique is Not

FollowedKeyboarding Expectations for the

Semester

What we are going to be talking about…

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

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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.

What Proper Technique Looks Like…

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Sit up straightFeet flat on the

floorArms near side and

wrists straight

Proper Technique Details

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

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Proper Technique Details

Wrists off the keyboardFingers 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 DEMONSTRATED1st 2nd 3rd FINAL

Correct Body Position

1. Maintains proper distance from machine and holds body in an upright position but relaxed.

1. 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