Keyboard: Why are there markings on the F and J keys of a keyboard? This idea was patented 23 years ago..

Keyboard F and J Marking Line Use: Whether you're a desktop user or a laptop user, have you noticed something on your system's keyboard? Have you seen the raised lines (marking lines) on the F and J keys of your keyboard? Many people may not have noticed this, but this idea was patented 23 years ago, in 2002. These markings on the 'F' and 'J' keys are meant to help touch typists. Let's find out what these lines on the keyboard are used for.

Useful in Touch Typing
According to a report, these markings help people who do touch typing, i.e., those who place their fingers on the correct keys without looking at the keyboard. This isn't something we usually notice in everyday life, because we become accustomed to typing over time, and most people don't even know about these markings on the 'F' and 'J' keys. These markings are located on the 'home row' of the keyboard, the middle row. This is where the fingers frequently rest during typing.

Increases Typing Speed
Anyone who learns to type using these two markings as a guide will have a faster typing speed. There is less chance of making mistakes while typing, and the fingers don't get tired as easily. Additionally, it helps maintain better posture while typing on a laptop. It reduces strain on the wrists. These markings also help visually impaired people while typing.

Called 'Tactile Markers'
The markings seen on the keyboard are called 'tactile markers'. They are given special consideration in any keyboard design. On a QWERTY keyboard, the left index finger is typically placed on the 'F' key and the right index finger on the 'J' key. The raised bumps on these keys allow you to locate the correct finger placement for typing by touch. This creates a layout where the left hand rests on the A, S, D, and F keys, and the right hand rests on the J, K, and L keys. So, the next time someone asks you what the bumps on the F and J keys of a keyboard mean, you can explain it to them in detail.

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