My favorite technique is “stacking functionality”. So different layers have similar functionality with the same keys. For example: I have arrow keys under “IJKL”. With different mod keys, these change to “select text up, down, left right” or “move text up, down, left, right” and even “move screen to workspace up, down, left, right”.
Do you have layout techniques to help minimize cognitive load of all your extra functionality?
Yes, my arrow keys also navigate browser tabs, function as home, end, page up and page down, volume keys, and, most frequently, navigating between work spaces and apps that are grouped together. This is particularly useful with Tiling Window Managers. I’m running Linux Pop OS, and having full control of my layout has exponentially increased my typing and navigation efficiency.
Nice! I’m also on Linux, using i3 windows manager. I love the versatility of managing what is shown on each of my screens and jumping focus from workspace to workspace!