Typing Return

A typing return is a secondary desk surface that extends perpendicular to the main desk, positioned at a slightly lower height specifically designed for keyboard and mouse use. This furniture component bridges the ergonomic gap between desks designed for writing height and the lower position needed for comfortable computer typing. By placing the keyboard on the return surface two to three inches below the main desk height, users maintain a more natural arm and wrist position that reduces strain during extended typing sessions. The typing return originated in executive office furniture where the main desk surface served for writing, meetings, and document review at standard desk height, while the perpendicular return provided a dedicated computer station at the ergonomically correct typing height. In home offices, this configuration remains valuable for users who split their time between computer work and physical tasks like writing, sketching, or reviewing printed documents. The return also creates a natural L-shaped workspace layout that provides visual and physical separation between digital and analog work zones, helping to organize workflow and reduce the tendency to pile papers around the keyboard.