How to get used to a new keyboard: The best way to get used to a new keyboard is to start typing. You can start by analyzing and comparing between your old keyboard and your new keyboard. Once you familiarize yourself with the button placements, start typing. With practice, you will get used to your new keyboard in no time at all.
There are plenty of reasons as to why getting a new keyboard would result in a challenging adjustment period — just like replacing your computer mouse for a new one — for many computer users.
The initial difficulties of getting new hardware vary, from dealing with different sizes and keys to getting a gaming keyboard for the first time or simply adjusting yourself from using a membrane keyboard to a mechanical keyboard.
We understand your frustration! That is why we have created this simple guide to give you helpful and actionable tips on how to get used to a new keyboard.
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The Purpose of Your Keyboard
The first thing we need to address is: what do you use your keyboard for? As with every other tool, how long it will take to adjust to any new hardware is determined by what you use your computer for.
If you are someone who spends more time checking your Facebook feed for the latest updates, or someone who uses the computer for watching YouTube videos, you’ll probably feel comfortable using just about any kind of keyboard.
However, if you are a gamer or someone who needs to get a lot of business-related activities done — like typing, writing articles, video editing, or graphic designing — then choosing the right keyboard will make a huge difference.
The Different Types of Keyboards
Most often than not, the accessories that come with your computer the first time you get it, is more than enough for you. However, as your needs grow over time, you might begin to look for specialized hardware for certain benefits.
Certain keyboards offer more buttons with various adjustability for the user.
While there are many different types of keyboards, the two most common types are the membrane-style keyboard and the mechanical keyboard. The latter is usually noisier.
Because it takes time for your muscle to collaborate with your mind, there will be a learning curve with getting a new keyboard, even if you are getting something similar to your old keyboard.
With all this in mind, let’s go over some tips for adjusting yourself to a new keyboard.
An example of a mechanical keyboard.
Adjusting to Your New Keyboard
1. Look at Your New Keyboard
First and foremost, the best thing you can do is to thoroughly look at your new keyboard. Notice the differences between the old and the new. Are the buttons smaller or bigger? Are the keys further apart? What are the differences between the numpads?
For some people, having to input numbers by using the buttons on top of the keyboard can be an unusual thing to do.
By familiarizing yourself with the appearance of your new hardware, you can start to get accustomed to using it. This is very important — especially for gaming keyboards — as there are additional buttons compared to traditional keyboards.
Getting used to the different buttons can help you become aware of knowing how to reach for them.
2. Begin Typing!
After getting to know your new friend, it’s a good idea to take them out for a spin. Just start typing! You can use a Google Doc or open up a Microsoft Word file — it doesn’t matter. The key thing is to begin writing real sentences and just let it flow.
You might feel frustrated because of the typos you are bound to make in the beginning, but just keep at it and develop that mind and muscle connection — just like how you got comfortable with your old keyboard.
Start slowly and take your time. You might need to look at your keyboard time and time again when typing, but as you grow more comfortable, everything will start to become effortless.
To speed up the adjustment process, you might want to learn how to type without looking at the keyboard. When you are a week into using your new keyboard, you can use the test to gradually increase your typing speed and comfort level. You should get the hang of it after the first few weeks.
If you are a die-hard computer gamer, then the best thing you can do is to just start playing and immerse yourself into the overall experience. You might not be as quick as you used to be, but before you even realize it, you should be back on top of your game in no time!
3. It Takes Time
Remember, it takes time. While the tips we mentioned above will dramatically help your adjustment process, always remember that nothing comes instantly. Just like riding a bicycle, you would not master it in one or two days. Instead, you will fall down, get back up, and just keep riding.
This applies to everything new in your life. The most important thing that you can remember is to just relax, have fun, and enjoy the process. You’ll find yourself fully accustomed to your new and improved hardware after a week or two.
If you notice that the keyboard is not the right size for you, then you should buy the best ergonomic keyboard. Often, keyboards are designed for medium to large-sized hands; therefore, users with small hands might have trouble getting used to them. If you do have small hands, consider buying a small ergonomic keyboard.
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Final Takeaways
As human beings, it’s perfectly normal taking a bit of time to adjust to using a new keyboard. Accept that it takes time to get used to anything. Remember, practice makes perfect!
The more you use them, the quicker you adjust to your new gear. So don’t let it bother you, don’t think too much, and just start typing!
