As a coder, there are a handful of things that you absolutely, one-hundred percent need to do the coding efficiently (besides your computer alone); and without them, it’s just not possible. So, rather than sending you on a hunt for vaguely named items, here is a list of five things you need to have before you start your coding journey:

1) Mechanical keyboard.

These keyboards are built with spring activated keys. They typically feel more comfortable than the rubber or plastic dome keyboards. Most gamers and coders prefer the mechanical keyboards due to their durability and how fast they run. Make sure to get yourself a backlit keyboard as well, for better lighting. They also look super cool.

2) Computer mouse.

These use something called a DPI, which stands for “dots per inch”; it’s just a measurement of how sensitive your computer mouse is. The higher the DPI, the more the cursor on the screen will move when touched — it reacts to even the smallest of movements. Some people prefer this, but there are computer mice that have lower DPI as well, which would require more movement to make the on-screen cursor move. Be sure to get a durable one, too; one that won’t need cleaned out often.

3) Computer chair.

While you can definitely use a chair you stole from the dining room, it isn’t recommended. Get yourself a chair with lumbar — that’s lower back — support. If at all possible, purchase a gaming chair, because those are built for people who spend a lot of time in them, so they have support in all the right places!

4) Wrist padding — preferably a gel.

The cloth kind will irritate your forearms if you have sensitive skin. These might not seem important, but you’ll quickly realize that, the more typing you do, the more tired your wrists will be. The constant strain will land you with early-onset carpal tunnel.

5) Sturdy desk.

Surprise! This is an important item that a lot of people will just fudge. You need to have a desk with enough space for your monitor — or monitors, if you’re dual-screening, your CPU, they keyboard, the wrist rest, AND give you ample room for your arms. It also needs to be the right height. Even if your computer chair can move up and down, if your desk is too high or too low, you will be bending your neck and ultimately find yourself stiff in the weeks to come.

With these five things, you’ll be ready to take on the coding world! Have chair suggestions? Keyboard you think work best? Drop them down in the comments and help out a fellow coder!