Use your keyboard

tldr

The mouse thaught people how to use a PC.

Now, everybody knows how to use a PC so now its time to focus on knowing how to use your PC well

A very brief history of the PC

In chronological order:

• In the beginning there was a keyboard and a terminal
• This had a long learning curve so most people didn't bother using PCs
• Then people at Xerox invented the mouse
• Steve Jobs saw it and invented the PC as we know it

The main reason to invent the mouse was to get 99% of people on the PC because it was easy to use.

In summary, you have a classic tradeoff between learning curve and productivity:

• Mouse: simple learning curve. low productivity
• Keyboard: hard learning curve. high productivity

Times are a-changing

In the developed world, in 2020, it's likely more people work with a computer on a daily basis then without one. It's worth investing in knowing the primary tool you use to get sh*t done.

Takeaway

For everyone, learn how to use your keyboard and avoid using your mouse

For all software developers, invest time to make your product usable with a keyboard

What I am not saying

The mouse has valid use cases. Some tasks require fluidity in movement (e.g., video games).

Also when you are learning to use a new system it makes sense to have an interface that promotes discoverability (i.e. you don't need to know the shortcuts to move around and poke your head in each menu bar)

Getting practical

Tools I use with my mac to avoid using the mouse:

• To avoid using a mouse when navigating the web. Vimium plugin for your browser (safari and chrome have one)
• To avoid using your mouse on a mac in general: Alfred app