What is SpaceFN and why you should give it a try
The SpaceFN concept - setting up your space key as a layer switch when held - is probably one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby. Let me explain how it works. My SpaceFN article on kbd.news made some rounds recently - quite surprisingly given the age of this concept. This piece you're reading is a condensed version of the full post. If you're left with unanswered questions, you'll most likely find the info you're looking for in the original write-up. On my imaginary top list of the most useful keyboard features, tweaks and hacks, SpaceFN would deserve a podium finish for sure. But what makes it so special? In short: SpaceFN is easy to implement, easy to learn, costs nothing, can be used with any keyboard, and can improve your productivity instantly. I will list its benefits below, but can state right at this point that the SpaceFN concept, setting up your space key as a layer switch when held, is clearly one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby....
Apr 30, 2024
this might be helpful:
https://www.massdrop.com/ext/ergodox/?referer=QWFQXZ&hash=a3a33bc0a270c17a7144d34d7d965358
Be sure to click on the "show more layers" button to reveal all my layers.
The layout is primary Dvorak based. Layer 0 is my primary typing layer when the OS is set to Qwerty/EN-US. Layer 1 is for the times that the OS is set to US-Dvorak (such as on a laptop, or a computer with a "regular" keyboard connected). This is not Programmer's Dvorak-based, just the standard Dvorak Simplified. Layers 2 and 3 are my "programming" layers for access to various symbols on the right hand, and various ways to move the text cursor around on the left hand.
My general concept was to minimize the amount of stretching away from home row, and to minimize the usage of my pinky fingers. The "programming" layers are designed to be easily accessed by holding the layer toggle keys with my thumbs and then hitting various keys with fingers on the same hand.
I like the sequential number row of Dvorak Simplified because that's what I learned years ago, and with the columnular layout of the ErgoDox (and other matrix-like layouts), I can easily touch type the number row.