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Position your hands
according to diagram above. The color coding shows which
finger to use to reach each key (you can also view our
interactive demonstration).
For instance, the left index finger is used to reach all red
keys. The green and purple keys are known as the "hard to
type" keys because they use the fingers that are not designed
for finely controlled movement. As you work on your
typing, you will want to give these keys extra attention.
The middle row
of the keyboard (A, S, D, F, etc.) is known as the "home row".
As you type, press each key gently with the correct finger and
then return your hands and fingers back to the home row position,
as shown above.
Most keyboards have
small bumps on the F and J keys. These can be used as
guides to allow you to position your fingers on the home row
keys without having to look at the keyboard. Once you feel
the bumps on your index fingers, you know your fingers are in
the right place.
Some important rules
to follow:
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Don't look at
the keyboard as you type. Keeping your eyes focused on
your monitor, instead of moving them between the monitor and
keyboard, will save you time and allow you to focus more on
your work.
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When using the
"shift" key to type a capital letter or punctuation symbol,
always use the shift key on the opposite side of the
keyboard. For instance, to type a capital "Q", use
your left hand to type the Q and the right hand to press the
right shift key.
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Don't move your
hand and other fingers any more than necessary to reach each
key. This speeds up your typing by keeping your hands
and fingers close to the home row, and also reduces strain.
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Be patient and
practice often. While the rules of touch typing
are simple, developing the technique and building speed take
time. In the beginning you may have to force yourself
to type using the correct technique, but over time you will
adjust and start to see your speed and productivity improve.
If you have not
already signed-up, our
Custom Typing Training web site provides all you need to
practice and develop your technique. |