You’re using your phone WRONG: Experts reveal the best way to tap your screen

While many of us feel lost without our smartphone in our hand, it turns out you’re probably using your device wrong. 

Experts have revealed the best way to tap your phone screen while gaming – and it’s bad news if your go-to digit is your thumb. 

Instead, experts say using your index fingers provides you with several advantages over relying solely on your thumb. 

‘The index finger offers superior precision and dexterity due to its larger range of motion and length – otherwise known as the index flex,’ said Therese Sander, a Level Design Expert for Candy Crush Saga. 

‘This enhanced control enables you to execute complex manoeuvres, tap small targets more accurately and reduce the chance of accidental moves.’

A survey of 2,016 Britons by Candy Crush found that the thumb is the weapon of choice for the younger generation.

Eighty per cent of Gen Z gamers said they use their thumb, while 67 per cent of millennials say it’s their predominant tapping digit. 

In contrast, 73 per cent of 59-77-year-old opt to use their index finger.

According to Ms Sander, this older generation has got the right idea. 

‘While the thumb remains useful for certain tasks on mobile devices, we’ve noticed the index finger is the preference for some of our top players, including a number of Candy Crush All Stars finalists,’ she explained. 

‘The index flex could be the way to go after all!’

A survey of 2,016 Britons by Candy Crush found that the thumb is the weapon of choice for the younger generation

According to The Hand and Wrist Institute, prolonged smartphone use can lead to a number of conditions, including repetetive stress injury, tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. 

‘If you must use your phone for work, school, or enjoy some time throughout the day to browse the web, it’s essential to try to prevent this pain from occurring in the first place,’ it advises. 

‘The main point here is to decrease the amount of pressure on your hands and refrain from repetitive motions.’

To prevent pain from smartphone use, it suggests using your phone in shorter sessions, calling family instead of texting them, and switching hands when using your phone. 

It’s also wise to stretch your wrist and fingers throughout the day, it adds.