One hand typing
The idea of one hand typing is to touch type using only one hand (e.g. the left one). Its history and application are closely related to keyboard research on QWERTY and Dvorak Simplified Keyboard.
Typing with one hand can be done in a number of ways, and novel approaches are still emerging. People handle this situation in different ways and the solution depends on whether it's a temporary condition, as well as the pupil's physical abilities, muscle strength, cognition and memory, etc. Therefore existing approaches may fit different expectations.
Contents
Benefits and drawbacks
One handed typing can be useful in situations where one would usually need to move their dominant hand between one's keyboard and mouse or if the typist makes notes while using one hand for another task. However, one-handed typing is slower than two-handed typing.[citation needed] One-handed typing can also become tiresome after long periods of time.
Using standard PC keyboard
Spacebar as modifier
The idea is to only use one hand (preferably the left one) and type typical right-hand letters by holding the space key with one's thumb which then mirrors the right side to the left one. Thus they're using the same finger on the left hand which they would use on the right hand to type that key.
Hand homeposition on FGHJ
Using a standard keyboard, the one-handed typist must move from side to side to cover all the keys. Ideally, this typist should keep their (good) hand on fghj, a new "home" position in the center of the board, but they will inevitably be forced to leave the home keys or stretch like a concert pianist to reach all the letters. Capital letters definitely require a time-consuming excursion to one side or the other. This reduces efficiency and frustrates the typist.[1]
Special keyboard layout
Some single hand keyboard layouts exist, such as "one-handed Dvorak" and "Left hand Ngaih". Switching the keyboard layout is often required. It is hence inconvenient for others to use the same computer. Another one handed keyboard is FrogPad.
