The spelling of "Dvorak Simplified Keyboard" is unique due to its Czech origins. The first word, "Dvorak," is pronounced [ˈdvɔrak] with emphasis on the first syllable. The second word, "Simplified," is pronounced [ˈsɪmplɪfaɪd] with emphasis on the second syllable. Finally, "Keyboard" is pronounced [ˈkiːbɔːd] with emphasis on the first syllable. The Dvorak Simplified Keyboard, named after its creator August Dvorak, is an alternative keyboard layout designed to improve typing speed and comfort.
The Dvorak Simplified Keyboard, also known as the Dvorak layout or DSK, is an alternative keyboard layout designed to improve typing efficiency and reduce typing-related injuries. It was developed in the 1930s by Dr. August Dvorak and his brother-in-law, Dr. William Dealey, in response to the inefficiency and discomfort associated with the commonly used QWERTY keyboard layout.
The Dvorak Simplified Keyboard organizes the keys in such a way that the most frequently used letters are placed on the "home row" (the middle row of keys) and are easily accessible by the fingers. This layout aims to reduce finger movement and increase typing speed by minimizing long reaches and awkward finger stretches.
In addition to its ergonomic benefits, the Dvorak layout also strives to increase typing accuracy. It takes advantage of the English language's frequency distribution of letters, placing commonly used letters on easy-to-reach keys. This reduces the likelihood of typing errors and allows for smooth, flowing typing motions.
The Dvorak Simplified Keyboard is an alternative to the more widely adopted QWERTY layout, which was originally developed for typewriters. While the QWERTY layout remains the standard for most keyboards, the Dvorak layout has gained a small but dedicated following, particularly among those seeking to improve typing efficiency and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.