Transitioning from a traditional keyboard to an ergonomic one can be challenging in the beginning. However, there are ways to make that adaptation easier.
The first things you need to get used to are:
- The split design
- The thumb keys
- The layout (if you’re transitioning to a columnar model)
Once you master the hand positioning and you feel comfortable with other aspects of the keyboard, you will need to face challenges such as:
- Complex thumb clusters
- Usage of multiple layers and features such as macros or superkeys
- Alternative layouts like Colemak or Ngram.
The time it takes to get used to them depends on the user. Several factors can affect the approximate time it takes for a user to get used to an ergonomic keyboard, especially:
- The user's previous skill level (being a touch typist or not).
- The amount of time available each day for learning
- External help and advice.
Considering these factors, it's difficult to establish an exact timeframe. The learning curve can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Though it might seem a lot, there are things you can do to start cutting that time, regardless of whether you have an Ergo keyboard.
As a recommendation, you can follow the steps we suggest below:
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Learn to Touch-Type: Touch typing involves using all your available fingers and pressing the correct keys with them. You can practice on sites like Typing Club and Typing Study if you're not a proficient typist. If you want to make it fun, you can also learn to touch-type with games like Epistory and The Typing of the Dead. There’s no drawback in acquiring these skills; they are the most valuable for ergonomic keyboards.
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Ditch Bad Typing Habits: Get rid of those lousy touch typing habits, for example, pressing Q & P with the ring finger, pressing X with the middle finger, or using your index finger to press C. Some errors on a staggered keyboard might go unnoticed, but carrying those errors to a split keyboard can be catastrophic.
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Find Your Space: Most ergonomic keyboards are split and have multiple thumb keys. Discover which is the most comfortable for you and the comfortable location for the space key, assigning one key at a time.
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Customize Your Thumb Cluster: Identify your most used modifiers and add them to thumb keys where you feel it's right. Assigning a different colour to these keys will help you get used to the new layout. Holding it down allows you to assign dual-function keys, like having Space or Enter with a tap and Shift, Ctrl, or any modifier.
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Personalize Your Way: Create layers, macros, super keys, and whatever you need. For example, you can have a symbol layer, a numeric keypad layer, and another for navigation. The possibilities are endless.
Remember to practice regularly, set realistic goals, and progress steadily to master your new ergonomic keyboard. You're not alone in this learning curve; in our Discord community, you will find users walking the same path and veteran Dygmates eager to help.