Key Tips for User-Centered Design (continued)

Don't use shifted key entries.

Pressing two keys at once invites keying errors. Try typing "*.*" ten times in a row without a mistake! Avoid forcing users to type with Alt and Ctrl keys for frequently used functions. F-keys are much better.

Avoid creative key mapping.

While it may appear straightforward to make "&" mean one thing with Alt and another thing with Ctrl, it can be confusing; and most users find it difficult to keep it all straight. They require extensive training and practice to memorize it all.

Use "hot keys" when users are experts.

When users interact with an application often, "hot keys" (with Alt and Ctrl) are worth the learning effort by speeding up the selection of menu and button options. Help make them easy to remember with mnemonics, like Alt/H for Help.

Design cursor movement.

Look for instances of speeding cursor control, such as mapping the down arrow key to navigate to the field below the current field. The up arrow would also be mapped to go up a line. You may need to modify your widgets to allow this.