I hope this is okay to post here. If not, let me know where I should go.

I built a standard table using mostly scrap wood. The top is a very nice piece of half-inch plywood, attached to 2x4 apron surrounding the sides. Legs are screwed into the apron (not mortise and tenoned because I was lazy). I’m typing on it now with a laptop and seems sturdy now but when I put my monitor setup, it becomes very top heavy. Since I tend to “pull” on my desk to move my chair, it would likely topple, which would be very bad™.

I’ve been frantically searching online of ways to counter-act this and methods don’t seem clear as to how they work. For example, some woodworking websites suggest adding cross braces across the legs. The page doesn’t explain why this works. I am guessing it spreads the force of weight across the braces towards the back legs?

I also found some plans that show a rising standing desk. Ignoring the moving parts, I saw that the legs were parallel to the desk, joined by what I’ll assume is mortise and tenon. This plan seems a bit more doable with the tools I have, and has a similar shape.

My monitor stand also functions as a rising desk and MUST sit on the front of the desk. So the apron is set back roughly 5 inches in the front so that it can clamp in. I estimate it’s roughly 20 pounds with the monitors on it. I know I could just buy 20 pounds of weight and put it on the back but given that tables should be tables, I figured I would ask here for suggestions.

I’ve got family stuff today and I’ll try to reply as I am able. Thanks in advanced.