The QWERTY Keyboard is the standard layout for most keyboards used in English-speaking countries. It is named after the first six keys in the top-left lettered row: Q, W, E, R, T, and Y. This layout was originally designed for typewriters and has been widely adopted in computer keyboards.
History
Inception and Design
The QWERTY layout was created by Christopher Latham Sholes, who was also one of the inventors of the first practical typewriter in the 1870s. Sholes’ design aimed to reduce the likelihood of typewriter jams by placing commonly used letter pairs apart from each other.
Evolution and Standardization
- Typewriters (1870s-1980s): The QWERTY layout became the standard for typewriters globally, especially after the Remington Company purchased the design rights.
- Computers (1980s-Present): With the evolution of personal computers, the QWERTY layout was seamlessly adopted for computer keyboards.
Practical Considerations
Ergonomics
While the QWERTY layout is widely used, it is not the most ergonomically efficient design. Alternative layouts like Dvorak and Colemak claim to reduce finger movement and increase typing speed.
Typing Efficiency
The QWERTY layout’s design has been questioned for efficiency. It was designed to prevent typewriter jams, not to maximize typing speed or ease. Despite this, it remains the most commonly used keyboard layout due to user familiarity and widespread adoption.
Examples
- Standard Computer Keyboards: Almost all PCs and laptops come with QWERTY layout keyboards.
- Virtual Keyboards: Mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, typically use QWERTY as their default virtual keyboard layout.
Related Terms
- Dvorak Simplified Keyboard: An alternative to QWERTY, designed to increase typing efficiency and speed.
- Colemak Keyboard Layout: Another alternative to QWERTY that aims to reduce finger movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the QWERTY layout still in use?
Despite not being the most efficient layout, its widespread adoption and user familiarity makes it difficult to switch to alternative layouts.
Are there any benefits of switching to an alternative keyboard layout?
Yes, users who switch to more ergonomic layouts like Dvorak or Colemak often report reduced finger movement and increased typing speed over time, although there is a learning curve.
Can I change my computer’s keyboard layout?
Yes, most operating systems allow users to change their keyboard layout through the settings menu.
References
- David, P. A. (1985). “Clio and the Economics of QWERTY”. The American Economic Review.
- Yasuoka, K., & Yasuoka, M. (2000). “The Birth of the QWERTY Keyboard”. IEEE Annals of the History of Computing.
Summary
The QWERTY Keyboard remains the de facto standard keyboard layout in English-speaking countries. Although its design was originally meant to address mechanical issues in typewriters, its persistence is a testament to the power of conventions and widespread adoption. Those looking for efficiency improvements have alternatives, though, like the Dvorak and Colemak layouts.
