Scenario
You spend much of your day navigating websites, systems, documents and applications. Opening menus, selecting links, ticking boxes and clicking buttons may seem like small actions, but they quickly add up over the course of a working day.
If buttons or links are small, closely spaced or difficult to target, you may find yourself clicking the wrong thing, having to try again, or needing to concentrate harder than you would like. Repeated mouse use can also become uncomfortable or tiring, particularly during longer periods of computer work.
What is getting in the way?
Many digital tasks rely on precise mouse movements and repeated clicking. This can be challenging for many people – Even without a specific condition, small clickable areas and frequent mouse use can slow people down and make everyday tasks feel more effortful than they need to be.
You may experience difficulties because of:
- reduced dexterity or mobility
- hand, wrist or arm discomfort
- repetitive strain injuries
- tremors or reduced precision
- fatigue
- small or crowded screen layouts
Tools that can help
There are many ways to interact with your computer without relying solely on a mouse. Features such as keyboard shortcuts, keyboard navigation, voice control, larger mouse pointers, adjusted mouse settings and alternative input devices can help reduce strain and improve accuracy.
Depending on your preferences, these built-in tools can help:
- Keyboard Shortcuts
- Mouse Keys
- Touch Gestures
- On-Screen Keyboard
- Sticky Keys
Using the right tools can make navigating your computer more comfortable, help reduce repetitive movements, and allow you to work more efficiently.
You do not need to try every tool. Start with one small change and see what helps.
