Placing your keyboard correctly is crucial for comfortable and ergonomic typing. According to expert recommendations, the optimal way to position your keyboard is to have it lie flat or be angled slightly away from you. Avoid propping it up on its built-in keyboard legs.
Optimal Keyboard Positioning
Proper keyboard placement helps maintain a neutral wrist posture, reducing strain and promoting better ergonomics. Here’s a breakdown of how to position your keyboard effectively:
The Basic Rule: Flat or Angled Away
Your keyboard should lie flat or be angled slightly away from you, not propped up on keyboard legs. This is a key principle for preventing wrist extension, which can contribute to discomfort and repetitive strain injuries. When the keyboard is flat or slopes away, your wrists can remain straighter while typing.
Why Avoid Using Keyboard Legs?
While many keyboards have legs, these are often designed to create a positive tilt (sloping upwards towards the user). This positive tilt can force your wrists into an extended position, putting pressure on the tendons and nerves. Keeping the keyboard flat or angled downwards (negative tilt, sloping away from you) is generally preferred for maintaining a neutral wrist angle.
Using an Adjustable Keyboard Tray
If you utilize an adjustable keyboard tray, pay close attention to its setup. If an adjustable keyboard tray is used, the edge platform should be parallel your forearms. This alignment helps ensure your wrists and hands are in a natural, comfortable position relative to the keyboard surface, supporting good posture while typing.
The Role of Ergonomic Keyboards
Consider the type of keyboard you are using. Ergonomic keyboards are designed to allow the hands to be in a more neutral posture and reduce repetitive strain while typing. Their split designs, contoured shapes, or negative tilt capabilities inherently guide you towards better hand and wrist placement.
Practical Tips for Keyboard Placement
Here are some practical tips to complement the recommended placement:
- Center the Keyboard: Position the keyboard directly in front of you, centered with your body. This prevents you from having to twist or reach awkwardly.
- Close to Your Body: Keep the keyboard close enough so you don't have to lean forward or extend your arms excessively. Your elbows should ideally be at a 90-degree angle or slightly greater.
- Align with Mouse: Place your mouse close to the keyboard to minimize reaching.
- Adjust Height: Ensure your keyboard is at a height that allows your shoulders to be relaxed and your forearms parallel to the floor. An adjustable desk or keyboard tray can be helpful here.
By following these guidelines and ensuring your keyboard lies flat or angles away from you, you can significantly improve your typing posture and reduce the risk of discomfort or strain.
