How to type faster

The main goal of learning typing is usually to acquire enough speed to be able to write medium-length texts in a reasonable amount of time. And the vast majority of people focus solely on speed. After all, it is the goal that the vast majority set for themselves. And we wonder how to type faster. We have in mind that person who barely takes a few minutes to write a full page in Word. Or that acquaintance who writes emails in 2 or 3 minutes.

When we start a typing course, we try to do all the exercises as fast as possible: Error. The main goal should be to perform the exercises as accurately as possible. Regardless of speed. We will place great importance on using the correct technique. Using the correct finger for each key. Having each finger make the correct movement. And maintaining the home row position.

Why? Because typing speed is achieved over time. The more we practice, the more speed we will acquire.

So, if I only use 2 or 4 fingers, I will gain speed, right? Yes. But you are going to hit a big wall. The time will come when your fingers cannot go any faster. And that is where a person who uses all fingers and in the correct way is going to gain a huge advantage over someone who does not.

Let's quantify it: Imagine we use 4 fingers and the thumb for the spacebar. 5 fingers in total. Suppose that with these 5 fingers, we get a speed of 150 keystrokes per minute. Not bad, right? Now let's imagine that we use all ten fingers of our hands with the same speed. We would simply double the speed to 300 keystrokes per minute just by typing with all fingers. That already sounds better. In addition, by having more fingers free, your brain can anticipate movements to reach the keys sooner, which can allow you to achieve even higher speeds. If you use all the fingers of your hands, it will be because you have learned to do it correctly, with a good technique that will have reduced the number of mistakes you make. All these small marginal gains can make us exceed 350 keystrokes.

What do I do to type faster?

Right. But, how do I manage to type faster? I tell all my students to start slowly. No rush. Making the correct movements. Feeling them, memorizing them, and without stress. You have to internalize them so that we can then perform them naturally. Without thinking. Just like when we want to run, first we need to learn to walk well.

So our main advice for those who want to acquire speed is precisely not to rush. Time will make you improve your speed.