Programmable keyboard for a typewriter or similar article

There is disclosed a programmable keyboard apparatus for allowing a user to select any one of a predetermined number of different keyboard arrangements such as the Qwerty or the Dvorak arrangements. The keyboard contains a plurality of fixed input keys arranged in rows and columns and according to a standard typewriter keyboard format. Each key has positioned above the key an indicating area whereby the designation or symbol for the key is automatically changed by the apparatus each time a different format is selected. In this manner, the user can experiment with keyboard formats which enable more rapid typing with fewer errors. The construction is extremely economical, and therefore, in utilizing the apparatus a user will have access to different keyboard arrangements which will increase the users ability to type or enter data. The keyboard disclosed can be used as a computer keyboard which will also enable a rapid change of symbols while permitting the operator to view the symbols for each different format through the respective windows.