Desk Setup Checklist

A printable, shareable checklist to help you build a clean, comfortable, and productive desk setup.

Use this checklist to evaluate or upgrade your current setup. Save it, print it, or share it.

Desk & Chair

  • ☐ Desk fits your space (≤ 48” for small rooms)
  • ☐ Desk depth allows monitor at arm’s length
  • ☐ Desk height allows elbows at ~90°
  • ☐ Chair height adjustable
  • ☐ Lumbar support for lower back
  • ☐ Seat depth allows 2–3 fingers behind knees
  • ☐ Feet flat on floor or footrest
  • ☐ Armrests adjusted or removed

Monitor & Screen Setup

  • ☐ Top of screen at or slightly below eye level
  • ☐ Monitor about arm’s length away
  • ☐ Screen centered to your body
  • ☐ Monitor tilt adjusted
  • ☐ Brightness adjusted for room lighting
  • ☐ Blue light or night mode enabled
  • ☐ Monitor arm or riser used

Keyboard & Mouse

  • ☐ Keyboard directly in front of you
  • ☐ Keyboard height allows relaxed shoulders
  • ☐ Wrists in a neutral position
  • ☐ Mouse at same height as keyboard
  • ☐ Mouse close to keyboard
  • ☐ Desk mat or mouse pad for comfort
  • ☐ Keyboard angle adjusted

Lighting

  • ☐ Desk lamp or monitor light bar
  • ☐ Light placed opposite writing hand
  • ☐ No glare or reflections on screen
  • ☐ Adjustable brightness
  • ☐ Warm light for evenings
  • ☐ Overhead lighting not casting shadows

Cable Management

  • ☐ Cables routed behind desk
  • ☐ Power bar hidden or mounted
  • ☐ Excess cable length managed
  • ☐ Cable clips used
  • ☐ Cable basket or tray under desk
  • ☐ No cables touching feet or chair wheels

Organization & Productivity

  • ☐ Only daily-use items on desk
  • ☐ Drawer or tray for small items
  • ☐ Vertical storage (shelf or pegboard)
  • ☐ Clear space for writing
  • ☐ Phone placed out of reach
  • ☐ Water bottle within reach

Comfort & Extras

  • ☐ Footrest for long sessions
  • ☐ Headphone stand or hook
  • ☐ External speakers or quality headphones
  • ☐ Webcam positioned at eye level
  • ☐ Plant or calming decor
  • ☐ Regular breaks scheduled (20–20–20 rule)

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Download Printable Checklist

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