From the
Employment and Learning Computer Lab:
Though
rarely discussed, it is actually somewhat important to remember that all
keyboards are different. Whatever the brand name of the computer, or whether
it’s a desktop or a laptop keyboard, the spacing and shape of the keys are
proprietary to the company, so there will be changes in each one. For example,
on desktop computers, the keys are more raised, so it takes an extra touch to
press them than on the laptops. Also, laptop keys tend to be closer together
and on some, may not have the number keypad on the right side, so you have to
rely on the number keys on the top row.
But it is
not just the spacing between the keys that is different, it is also the
placement of them. On most desktop computers, for example, the main text and
number keys are separate by a gap from the function keys at the right (Insert,
Home, Delete, etc.), and then the numeric keypad. However, on the laptop, the configuration can
be different, with the keys all crammed together.
The reason
to mention this is that keyboards take some getting used to, even if you are
comfortable on your own. When taking a typing test at a job interview, it is a
good idea to use the opportunity to practise before you take the test, so you
can feel more comfortable, and make fewer errors.
Speaking of typing
test errors, note that it is better to leave the mistake and continue going
than to correct it. In the time it takes to make the change to a mistake that
will be one keystroke deducted from the final tally, you could have possibly
typed more than the one letter.
