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On the typing of tables
J Hartley1, M Young, P Burnhill
1Department of Psychology, University of Keele.
Applied Ergonomics
|March 1, 1975
Summary
Left-ranging tables significantly reduce typing time compared to centered tables. This study demonstrates considerable time savings for left-ranging formats across various complexity levels, improving typing efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Information design
- Human-computer interaction
- Typing efficiency studies
Background:
- Traditional document formatting often utilizes centered tables.
- The impact of table alignment on data entry efficiency is not well-documented.
- Optimizing document layout can enhance productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the typing time required for left-ranging versus centered tables.
- To evaluate the effect of table complexity on typing efficiency.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for table formatting.
Main Methods:
- A typist was timed while creating left-ranging and centered tables.
- Three distinct levels of table complexity were used in the experiment.
- Data on typing time was collected and analyzed for each condition.
Main Results:
- Left-ranging tables consistently required less typing time than centered tables.
- Significant time savings were observed for left-ranging tables at all complexity levels.
- The difference in typing time increased with table complexity.
Conclusions:
- Left-ranging table formats are more efficient for data entry than centered formats.
- Adopting left-ranging tables can lead to substantial productivity gains in document creation.
- Formatting guidelines should favor left-ranging tables for improved efficiency.