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8. Adaptation Guidelines & Getting Started
Many experienced typists, when presented with a Kinesis contoured keyboard for the rst time, overestimate the amount of
time it will take them to adapt to the key layout. With 25 years of experience creating contoured keyboards, Kinesis knows
that adaption is possible for typists of all ages and experience levels, provided they follow the guidelines below.
Adapting your kinesthetic sense
If you are already a touch typist, adapting to the Kinesis contoured keyboard does not require “re-learning” to type in the
traditional sense. Learning the Advantage2 layout is just about adapting your existing muscle memory or kinesthetic sense.
Typing with long ngernails
Typists with long ngernails (i.e., greater than 1/4”) may have particular difculty with the curvature of the key wells.
Typical adaptation period
You will need a little time to adjust to the new shape of the Advantage2 keyboard. Laboratory studies and real-world testing
show that most new users are productive (i.e., 80% of full speed) within the rst few hours of using a Kinesis contoured
keyboard. Full speed is typically achieved gradually within 3-5 days but can take up to 2-4 weeks in some instances. We
recommend not switching back to a traditional keyboard during this initial adaptation period as that can slow the retraining
of your aforementioned kinesthetic sense. If possible, it can reduce frustration and fatigue if you can reduce your workload
during the adaptation period.
Initial awkwardness, fatigue and even discomfort is possible
Many users report some awkwardness when rst using a Kinesis contoured keyboard. Muscle fatigue and/or mild discomfort
may also occur while your body is adjusting to new typing and resting postures and motions.
Note: If you experience severe
pain, or symptoms persist for more than a few days, stop using the keyboard and see Section “If You Are Injured”.
After Adaptation
Once you have adapted to the Advantage2, you should have no problem switching back to a traditional keyboard, although
you may not nd a traditional keyboard comfortable any more. Many users report an increase in typing speed because of
the efciencies inherent in the Advantage2 design and the fact that it encourages you to use proper typing form.
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