Keyboard Skills Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Importance of keyboard skills in computer usage.
• Keyboard as the main input device for data entry.
• Goal: Enhance operational skills and typing ergonomics.

Touch Typing

• Touch Method: Typing without looking at keys.
• Muscle Memory: Knowing key locations through practice.
• Home Row: Positioning fingers on A, S, D, F (left hand) and J, K, L, ; (right hand).
• Typing speed improves with practice; up to 60 words per minute possible.

Types of Keys on the Keyboard

1. Alphanumeric Keys: A-Z, 0-9
2. Punctuation Keys: Commas, periods, brackets, etc.
3. Alt Key: Alternative functions, e.g., Ctrl + Alt + Del.
4. Arrow Keys: Navigate cursor up, down, left, right.
5. Shift Key: Used for capital letters and symbols.
6. Backspace Key: Deletes character to the left of the cursor.
7. Caps Lock Key: Toggles uppercase letters.
8. Control Key: Functions with other keys for shortcuts.
9. Delete Key: Deletes character at the cursor position.
10. Enter Key: Move to the next line.
11. Escape Key: Exits programs.
12. Function Keys: F1 to F12, with different meanings in various programs.
13. Numeric Keypad: Located on the right side; has number and function keys.

Keyboarding Ergonomics

• Posture: Sit straight, neck slightly bent forward.
• Hand Position: Forearms parallel with the keyboard, wrists straight.
• Monitor Placement: Top of the screen at eye level, 60-65 cm distance for a 17" screen.
• Keyboard and Mouse Placement: Keep them together, about 20 cm apart.
• Chair and Table: Adjust to optimal height, supportive for lower back.

Typing Techniques and Guidelines

• Fingers Positioning: Train fingers to return to home keys after pressing other keys.
• Allocation of Keys to Fingers: Each finger assigned specific keys.
• Typing Capital Letters: Use Caps Lock or Shift key.
• Use of Space Bar: For spacing between words.
• Creating New Lines: Use Enter key.

Successful Keyboarding Tips

• Press keys lightly, do not apply undue pressure.
• Keep fingers on home row while typing.
• Release keys immediately after pressing.
• Do not look at the keyboard; practice without looking.
• Press keys with equal timing and rhythm.
• Maintain patience and accuracy, especially while learning.

Conclusion

• Importance of mastering keyboard skills for efficient computer usage.
• Reminder to practice typing techniques for improvement.
• Encouragement to stay safe, healthy, and continue learning.