ClearFlow: Typing with Clarity and Flow

Introduction

ClearFlow is a high-performance soft keyboard layout designed for accurate and fast glide typing. Developed through a rigorous, theory-driven optimization process, its letter arrangement is optimized to create distinct gesture traces for each word while minimizing trace lengths. Empirical research demonstrates its effectiveness: ClearFlow improves input efficiency compared to Qwerty by (1) reducing backspace corrections by 37.5% and (2) shortening finger gliding distance by 41.6%.

ClearFlow now is available in Google's Gboard.

ClearFlow Layout

On Phone

The optimized letter arrangement of ClearFlow results in distinct gestures for each word, significantly enhancing accuracy compared to Qwerty. For instance, common words like "bit" and "but" share similar gesture patterns on Qwerty, whereas on ClearFlow, their gesture traces are clearly different. Other examples include "our" vs. "or," "nit" vs. "not," and "there" vs. "three."

Additionally, the compact 5x6 letter grid allows for more flexible finger movements compared to the traditional 3x10 Qwerty layout. The dual-spacebar design makes the spacebar access more convenient.

On Foldable and Tablet

The split design better supports typing and gliding with two hands by placing letter keys on one side, and number and auxiliary keys on the other.

Resources

FlowGames App: Mobile Games for Learning ClearFlow (Coming Soon)