Want to become a typing pro? Typing quickly isn’t just for those who love speed, it’s a handy skill that can boost your productivity and make computer work a breeze. Whether you’re aiming to smash those words-per-minute (WPM) stats or you just want to be a more comfortable and precise typist, you’re in the right spot. In this quick guide we’ve compiled some key tips and tricks to help you become a master typer!
Nail Down the Basics: Hand Placement
Before you start racing through the keyboard, let’s get back to the basics. Make sure your hands are comfortably resting on the “home row,” which means placing your left hand fingers on the ASDF keys and your right hand fingers on the JKL keys.
This is like the starting block for typing. From here, your fingers can easily glide over to other keys, making typing faster and more natural. Spend some time every day getting used to this position, even if you’re already a pretty good typer.
Use All Fingers
This might seem obvious, but using all your fingers is a game-changer. Forget about using just your index fingers and thumbs. Each finger has its own set of keys to hit and once you get the hang of it, your hands will automatically know where to go. Start slow to get it right and before you know it, you’ll be typing like a champ.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like riding a bike or playing the piano, typing gets better with practice. Try to set aside 15 minutes each day to work on your skills. You can find fun, free online tools and games that make learning to type feel more like playtime.
Websites like TypingClub and Keybr have lessons that adapt to how fast or slow you’re going, making it super easy to see how much better you get over time.
Dive Into Touch Typing
Touch typing is when you can type without peeking at the keyboard. This makes typing faster and reduces typos because you can keep your eyes on the screen. Start by learning where each key is and then try typing without looking down. Begin with simple sentences and build up to more complex ones.
Accuracy Before Speed
Sure, typing fast is cool, but typing fast and accurately is even cooler. Focus on getting it right before you go for the gold. Aim for 90% accuracy before you start racing. If you’re precise with your keystrokes, you’ll make fewer mistakes and won’t have to go back and fix them, which saves time in the long run. Plus, as you get more comfortable, the speed will come naturally.
Use Typing Software and Apps
There’s a bunch of typing software and apps out there that can help you improve. These tools have lessons tailored to your skill level, so you can work on what you need most. Programs like Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing and online places like Typing.com can help you get faster and more accurate.
Pay Attention to Ergonomics
Don’t forget to set up your workspace right. A comfy chair, a well-placed keyboard and a monitor at the right height can make a huge difference. It’s like sitting in a chair that’s just right for reading a book, it makes everything easier. Less strain means you can type longer without getting tired and sloppy.
Set Realistic Goals
Don’t try to go from 0 to 100 in one go. Set realistic goals that you can reach, like going from 18 WPM to 25 WPM. Then, take it to 30 WPM. Small steps keep you motivated and make the journey feel less like a marathon.
Wrapping up
Boosting your typing speed is all about sticking to it, doing it the right way and giving it time. If you really focus on getting each key right, use all your fingers like a pro and make typing software your buddy, you’ll be zipping through words like nobody’s business before you know it. Just keep in mind, even the fastest typists were once newbies just like you. Stay dedicated and keep at it and you’ll be typing like a champ in no time.
