Most desk setups do not need a perfect set of measurements. They need enough adjustment to suit the work you do, the equipment you use and the space you have. Start with the items below, make one change at a time, and keep the settings that feel workable over a normal day.
1. Set the chair and desk height before the screen
Sit in your usual working position and make sure you can work with your shoulders relaxed and your forearms supported where appropriate. If raising the chair helps the desk height work better, use a stable footrest or another suitable support so your feet are supported too. A work area should leave enough clear space to move and to change position.
2. Position the screen for your normal task
WorkSafe Victoria advises setting the top of the screen level with, or slightly below, eye level when sitting upright. A useful starting point is about an arm's length away, then move it closer or further away to suit the text size and task. Reduce glare by avoiding a screen position that directly faces a window or catches strong reflections.
For longer laptop sessions, an adjustable setup can make it easier to position the display separately from the keyboard. Depending on the work, that may mean a laptop stand or dock together with an external monitor, keyboard and mouse.
3. Keep the keyboard and mouse within an easy reach
Place the keyboard as close to the front edge of the desk as is comfortable for you, leaving room to work without crowding the desk. Keep the mouse directly beside the keyboard on the side you normally use. If you work from paper documents, try placing them where you can read them without repeatedly reaching or turning away from the screen.
4. Make movement and task changes part of the workday
Screen and keyboard work can involve long periods in one position. Build in regular breaks and rotate tasks where that is practical for your job. The right schedule depends on the task, your work requirements and your workplace arrangements; use a reminder if it helps you remember to change position or look away from the screen.
5. Review the whole workstation, not just one accessory
Lighting, glare, chair adjustment, desk height, available space and the equipment you use all work together. A supportive chair, a footrest where needed and external equipment can be useful components of a home workstation, but they are not one-size-fits-all fixes. Adjust one factor at a time and keep the arrangement that supports your normal work.
Quick checklist
- Screen top at, or slightly below, eye level when sitting upright.
- Screen positioned at a workable distance for the task and text size.
- Keyboard close enough to use comfortably; mouse immediately beside it.
- Clear space for movement, with lighting and glare considered.
- Regular breaks and task variation planned into the day.
Note on scope
This is general workstation information, not individual health advice. If a workplace has a formal workstation process, use it. If you need advice tailored to a health concern, seek guidance from an appropriately qualified professional.