PEBKAC

Updated: 11/12/2023 by Computer Hope

Short for problem exists between keyboard and chair, PEBKAC is a term used by computer technicians and IT (information technology) professionals to describe a user error. The term asserts that the user is to blame when referring to the technical issue at hand; not the installed software or the device itself. PEBKAC may be considered a derogatory term as it is usually directed at computer users who have made a mistake.

Similar terms

Below are similar terms related to PEBKAC that may also be used and their meaning.

  • EBCAK - Error between chair & keyboard.
  • EBKAC - Error between keyboard & chair.
  • PICNIC - Problem in chair, not in computer.
  • PEBCAC - Problem exists between chair and computer.
  • PLBCAK - Problem lies between chair & keyboard.
  • PLBKAC - Problem lies between keyboard & chair.

Example usage

Computer tech #1: "What did you determine to be the cause of that Microsoft Word issue that Jane was having?"

Computer tech #2: "It was just a PEBCAK error. Jane was selecting the wrong menu option."

Computer acronyms, Computer slang, Human error, ID10T, Keyboard, Layer 8, Newbie, RTFM, User error