Colemak Mod-DH - Switching to a new keyboard layout
Finally, I can write about the new keyboard layout I'm using. It's called Colemak Mod-DH and it's awesome.
Sep 12, 2024
Embracing Change: My Switch from QWERTZ to Colemak Mod-DH
In the ever-evolving world of technology, our interaction with computers has become an integral part of our daily lives. For many, typing is second nature, and the keyboard layout plays a significant role in our efficiency and comfort. Recently, I embarked on a journey to redefine my typing experience by making the switch from the conventional, old QWERTZ layout to the Colemak Mod-DH layout. In this blog post, I’ll share my motivations, experiences, and the impact this change caused on my daily computing.
Why Make the Switch?
The QWERTZ (and in the same boat, also QWERTY) layout, though widely used, was designed for typewriters in the 19th century, with a primary focus on preventing mechanical jams. However, times have changed, and new layouts have emerged to address efficiency and ergonomics. Colemak Mod-DH caught my attention due to its thoughtful design, placing common keys under stronger fingers and minimizing finger movement. The promise of increased typing speed, reduced strain, and a more comfortable typing experience were compelling reasons to make the switch. But switching is only made possible in the first place by the availability of the layout on modern operating systems and the support of software tools that make the transition smoother, and - of course - the hardware that allows for the layout to be used, which in my case is the ZSA Moonlander Mark I.
Learning Curve and Initial Challenges
Adopting a new keyboard layout is no small feat, holy f*ck. I just went cold turkey, and boy was it cold. Straightup, I just switched to Colemak on my daily work as a software engineer. I know, there are far better ideas than cold turkey-ing through this, there are even layouts which are bridges between QWERTY and Colemak and should make the switch easier. The first few weeks were undoubtedly challenging as I navigated the unfamiliar layout. Muscle memory, built over years of QWERTZ and QWERTY use, was difficult to overcome. However, with consistent practice and dedication, I started to see progress. I used online typing “games”, mostly monkeytype which is awesome to use und endlessly customizable. The initial frustration gradually gave way to a sense of accomplishment as I began to feel more comfortable with the new layout. Most progress is seen in typing texts because obviously, you type text to practice the layout. There are also typing practices especially for coding or typing numbers, which is awesome for next steps. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows; the learning curve is steep, and perseverance is key - sometimes this still is present even after one year of constant practice. Typing fluent text is one thing, but typing code is a whole different story and needs far more practice, at least for me.
Typing Efficiency and Ergonomics
One of the primary motivations behind the switch was the promise of increased typing efficiency and improved ergonomics. Colemak Mod-DH is designed with the modern user in mind, optimizing hand movement and minimizing finger strain. After the initial learning curve, I started to notice a significant improvement in my typing speed and a reduction in discomfort during extended typing sessions.
Customizability and Personalization
One of the appealing aspects of Colemak Mod-DH is its modifiability. Users can customize the layout to better suit their preferences and work habits. This level of personalization allows for a truly tailored typing experience, something that traditional layouts like QWERTZ may lack.
Community and Support
Switching keyboard layouts is a journey that many have undertaken before, and a supportive community can make a substantial difference. Online forums, chat groups, and resources dedicated to Colemak users provided a wealth of knowledge, tips, and encouragement. This sense of community made the transition smoother and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Making the switch from QWERTZ to Colemak Mod-DH was a decision rooted in a desire for a more efficient and ergonomic typing experience. While the initial learning curve presented challenges, the long-term benefits in terms of speed, comfort, and personalization have made the effort worthwhile. If you’re considering a change in your typing setup, exploring alternative layouts like Colemak Mod-DH might just be the key to unlocking a more satisfying and productive computing experience.
Happy typing! ⌨️
References & Resources
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