QMK layers!

I focused on finding a keyboard that would suit me physically; (crkbd, also had the bonus of seeming like an easy first keyboard to build)

After building it, I started experimenting with the configuration and see what QMK features could make it work for me

• I didn't consider 4-row keyboards: I never use the number row, so building a larger keyboard would just be a waste
• Basically I created my layers so that mainly the left hand selects the layer, and the right uses the keys comfortably
• Holding down two keys (left thumb+index) selects my "mode" for the right half:
  • Numpad on layer 2
  • F keys in a numpad layout on layer 3
  • Special symbols on layer 4
  • Multimedia/volume keys
  • etc etc
• I even made a sticky layer for gaming: press a combination once, and e.g. layer 8 stays selected, with WASD keys etc for the left split. Pressing a thumb key temporarily selects layer 9, which transforms the left split to a layout of numpad keys for weapon selection, Esc, etc

Sorry if it sounds complicated, it's a bit difficult to describe 😅 But the point is that I configured the layers, so they are configured in a way that suits me, and it's easier to remember and use than it seems: after a week or so I was fully used to it! It's been a few years and I haven't configured it much since then.

Just don't be shy to check the QMK documentation and think creatively to see what kind of keys you would want to set to make a small keyboard more comfortable for your usage!

Edit: I found the configuration file so I took a screenshot! Layers 8 and 9 are the "gaming" layers (also, ignore the letters: since I was learning a new keyboard anyway, I took the opportunity and switched to colemak as well 😅)

BTW I used the "numrow" keys for the numbers instead of their numpad versions: this way I don't have to worry about the numlock 😅