Why our keyboard layouts are the way they are

When you look at your keyboard layout, you’ll notice that the keys are not arranged alphabetically; instead, they follow the QWERTY keyboard layout. Proficient writers and typists internalize this keyboard, enabling them to type sentences quickly and smoothly without looking at the keyboard. Learn why our keyboards follow the QWERTY organization and understand why typists and writers adopt this organization for fluid typing.

What’s the history of our keyboard layout?

The keyboard we use today was created by Christopher Latham Sholes, an American inventor, in the 19th century. Initially, he designed the keyboard alphabetically for typists’ convenience in accessing keys. However, typists frequently used letter combinations, leading to key clashes and jams, prompting Christopher Sholes to reorganize the keyboard. He separated commonly used letter pairings, ultimately resulting in the QWERTY keyboard design. The name is derived from the order of the six keys on the top row of the keyboard (Q W E R T Y). This layout change facilitated faster typing and reduced jamming errors on typewriters. The design was incorporated into typewriters by 1874 and has since become the ubiquitous standard.

Are there other keyboard layouts?

Although the QWERTY keyboard is commonly used today, it does have its downsides. Since typewriters are obsolete, spreading out commonly used letters isn’t as necessary. The digital age makes alphabetically ordered keys more of a possibility, as well as more ergonomically friendly designs. Some popular alternative keyboard layouts include the following:

Dvorak keyboard layout

The Dvorak keyboard layout, Invented by Dr. August Dvorak in the 1930s, the Dvorak keyboard design places the most used letters and letter combinations in convenient locations. This layout reduces finger movement and strain, leading to increased typing efficiency.

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Colemak keyboard layout

The Colemak keyboard layout, developed by Shai Coleman in 2006, is an evolution of the QWERTY layout aimed at improving typing efficiency and minimizing finger movement. Colemak retains much of the familiar QWERTY layout, making it easier for users to transition. It optimizes key placement for common letter combinations and has gained popularity among those seeking a more ergonomic alternative to QWERTY.

Workman keyboard layout

The Workman keyboard layout, created by OJ Bucao, is designed to prioritize typing comfort and speed. It minimizes finger movement and promotes a balanced workload between hands. Workman aims to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries and improve overall typing efficiency.

Why is the QWERTY keyboard layout still the norm?

The QWERTY keyboard, established as the typewriter standard, remains the prevailing layout today. Beyond its enduring popularity, it’s easy to use and learn. Typists widely recognize this layout, as most typing classes predominantly instruct on QWERTY keyboards. Consequently, it has evolved to be an intuitive, efficient, and deeply ingrained part of our consciousness. For these reasons, it remains a favored choice for personal, professional, and academic purposes.

The QWERTY keyboard’s enduring presence and user-friendly design have solidified its status as the dominant layout. While more ergonomic alternatives exist, the widespread adoption of QWERTY in typing classes has simplified the learning process. If you need help improving your productivity or are looking for easy ways to improve your writing, teach yourself with these writing tips.