> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/guides/ergonomics/posture.md). # Body posture when using drawing tablets ## Overview Depending on the kind of drawing tablet you have, your body posture will be very different. To quickly summarize: * With a **pen tablet**, your back will naturally be more vertical * With a **pen display**, you will be hunched over a little or a lot * With a **standalone tablet**, you will also often be hunched over ## The pen tablet posture When using the pen tablet on a desk... The pen tablet will typically lie flat on the desk, so it is parallel to the desk. Your posture will be as follows: * Your back will be vertical * Your head will be looking straight ahead at your monitor * Your eyes will be pointed straight ahead at your monitor * One hand will be holding the pen on the tablet * The other hand will usually be on the desk, often placed on or near the keyboard to press shortcut keys ## The pen display posture When using a pen display on a desk... The pen display will usually be at an angle to the desk rather than flat because people: * Tilt the tablet using the legs that come with it * Tilt the tablet to varying degrees using a stand. Some tablets come with a stand, and some are bought separately * Tilt the tablet using a monitor arm Your posture will be as follows: * Your back will be leaning in toward the tablet * Your head will be angled down a bit toward the tablet screen. How much you look down depends on the tablet's tilt. * Your eyes will likely be looking down a little bit * One hand will be holding the pen on the tablet * The other hand will usually be on the desk, often placed on or near the keyboard to press shortcut keys ## Which has better posture? Most people report that using a **pen tablet gives them better posture**. Even people who prefer to use pen displays typically have to be conscious of their posture and take breaks, stretch, etc. Be aware that many people find the posture of a pen display very difficult to deal with. Many people buy a pen display, then return it and switch to a pen tablet for this reason. For some people, the posture of a pen display is very uncomfortable and can cause real pain. Here is an example: *