keyboarding

Keyboarding is the act of entering text and commands into a computer or other device by pressing keys on a keyboard. It encompasses typing on physical keyboards attached to desktops and laptops as well as input via on-screen keyboards on mobile devices and specialized keyboards used by assistive technologies. Proficiency is commonly measured in typing speed, typically expressed in words per minute (WPM), and accuracy.

The modern keyboard traces its lineage to the typewriter keyboard. The QWERTY layout, designed in the 1870s by Christopher L. Sholes, became standard to reduce key jams and later became dominant in typewriters and computers. Alternative layouts such as DVORAK and Colemak have been proposed to improve typing speed and reduce finger movement. While QWERTY remains dominant, many users and devices support multiple layouts.

Typical technique uses touch typing with the home row on ASDF (left) and JKL; fingers reach other keys without looking. Proper posture, neutral wrists, and relaxed forearms are recommended to reduce strain. Beginners may hunt-and-peck, but touch typing generally improves speed and accuracy. Training emphasizes accuracy first, then speed, and regular breaks to reduce repetitive strain injuries.

Keyboards vary in switches, travel distance, keycap shape, and ergonomics. Mechanical and membrane keyboards exist, with ergonomic and split designs, tenting, and angled layouts intended to reduce musculoskeletal strain. Accessibility options include alternative input devices and features like sticky keys and keyboard shortcuts to assist users with disabilities.

Keyboarding skills are widely taught in schools and are a basic requirement in many jobs. With mobile devices, on-screen keyboards and predictive text have become common, while physical keyboards remain essential for longer-form typing and professional tasks. The field continues to evolve with new hardware and input methods and remains a core aspect of human-computer interaction.