Abstract: The provision of an optimized arrangement for reading tasks at a clamshell or laptop computer, particularly to facilitate reading in portrait mode. Further contemplated herein are arrangements for readily switching between a reading (portrait) operating mode and a “normal” (landscape) mode. Such changes could be brought about via essentially any suitable arrangement, such as via an accelerometer which acts automatically, or a hotkey which is activated manually. Additionally contemplated herein is the use of mouse keys for alternative purposes specific to switching between the reading/portrait modes, such as utilizing left and right mouse buttons for page up and page down controls for reading (in portrait mode). A mouse pad (touchpad) can also be employed for alternative purposes in reading/portrait mode, such as the use of horizontal mouse pad scrolling for vertical document scrolling in reading/portrait mode.