Why French People Use AZERTY Instead of QWERTY Keyboard Layout

When it comes to typing on a computer or a smartphone, most of us are familiar with the QWERTY keyboard layout. It is the standard keyboard layout used in the United States and many other English-speaking countries. However, in France, people use a different keyboard layout called AZERTY. In this article, we will explore why French people use AZERTY instead of QWERTY keyboard layout.

History of the AZERTY Keyboard Layout

The AZERTY keyboard layout was first introduced in France in the late 19th century. The layout was designed to be used with the French language, which has a different set of characters than English. The AZERTY layout was created to make it easier for French typists to type efficiently.

One of the significant differences between the AZERTY and QWERTY keyboard layout is the placement of the letters. In the AZERTY layout, the A, Z, E, R, T, and Y keys are in the same positions as the Q, W, E, R, T, and Y keys on the QWERTY layout. The other letters are arranged differently to make it easier to type French words.

Why French People Use AZERTY Instead of QWERTY Keyboard Layout

There are several reasons why French people use AZERTY instead of QWERTY keyboard layout. Let's explore some of them.

1. Efficiency

One of the primary reasons why French people use AZERTY keyboard layout is that it is more efficient for typing in the French language. The AZERTY layout is designed to make it easier to type French characters such as accents and special characters. The placement of the letters on the AZERTY layout is more intuitive for typing French words and phrases, which means that French typists can type faster and more accurately.

2. Cultural Preference

Another reason why French people use AZERTY keyboard layout is that it is a part of their cultural identity. The AZERTY layout has been a part of the French culture for over a century, and many French people feel that it is an important part of their national identity. The AZERTY layout is taught in schools and used in many French businesses, so it is a familiar and comfortable option for French typists.

3. Compatibility

Another reason why French people use AZERTY keyboard layout is that it is more compatible with French computer systems. French computers and software are designed to work with the AZERTY layout, so using a QWERTY keyboard can cause compatibility issues. By using an AZERTY keyboard, French typists can ensure that their keyboard will work seamlessly with their computer and software.

How to switch to AZERTY layout keyboard?

If you are interested in switching to the AZERTY layout keyboard, you can do so easily. Most modern operating systems, including Windows and MacOS, support the AZERTY layout keyboard. You can switch to the AZERTY layout keyboard by following these steps:

1. On Windows:

a. Open the Control Panel.

b. Click on "Clock, Language, and Region."

c. Click on "Change keyboards or other input methods."

d. Click on "Change keyboards."

e. Click on "Add" and select "French (France) - AZERTY" from the list.

2. On MacOS:

a. Click on the Apple menu and select "System Preferences."

b. Click on "Keyboard."

c. Click on "Input Sources."

d. Click on the "+" button and select "French - AZERTY."

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AZERTY layout keyboard is an essential part of French culture and language. French people use AZERTY instead of QWERTY keyboard layout because it is more efficient for typing in the French language, it is a part of their cultural identity, and it is more compatible with French computer systems. While the QWERTY layout may be more familiar to many of us, the AZERTY layout is the preferred keyboard layout for French typists.