Taking everything together related to ergonomics, your goal should be to set up your work space, desk, chair, and computer so that you minimize stress (both mental and physical) and maximize productivity. In order to do that, you need to keep seven things in mind. Check the list below to see if you have your typing tools in the position you need, and if you’re putting your body in the right position to use those tools.

Number one: To avoid headaches, your head should be held upright, not tilted forward or backward, because a tilted head can create strain.

Number two: Aim for relaxed shoulders and arms that hang naturally at your sides.

Number three: Never let your elbows flare out. Keep them bent at right angles (or up to 120 degrees) and close to your body.

Number four: Don’t over-exaggerate the curve in your fingers. Keep it natural.

Number five: Always strive to keep your wrists flat.

Number six: Keep thighs and hips parallel to the floor and well-supported.

Number seven: Keep your feet uncrossed and flat against the floor.

If that sounds like a lot to remember, try creating a mental image of yourself seated at your computer work space to help remember. Basically, when all of the body parts just mentioned are in proper alignment, your body should form two letter “L’s”.

Looking at an imaginary cross section of your seated body, draw an imaginary line from your erect head down to your elbows, and then another line from your elbows extending outwards to your wrists. The line from head to elbow, and from elbow to wrist, forms the first letter “L”.

The second letter “L” is actually drawn upside-down. This other “L” is formed by drawing an imaginary line from your buttocks straight out to your knees, and then from your knees down to your heel. See the upside-down letter “L”? Another imaginary straight line drawn from your heel to toe ensures your feet are flat on the floor.

Note: If you experience musculoskeletal pain and discomfort now, or while completing the Typesy Course, you may need to seek professional help. Only someone with the proper training can accurately diagnosis the source of your pain or discomfort and recommend a treatment plan that may or may not include ergonomics.