I usually use F1, F2, F3 etc for skill on the Left Side, and F8, F7, F6, F5 for the Right. For instance, I set Paladin's Aura...say, Convict on F6, Fana on F5, HS on F8.

And for Baba, I set BC on F8, Bo on F7, Shout on F6.

You did come up with a good point though, say if someone just plays without pressing shift, he will definitly be put into range disadvantages.