Touch typing is a skill that uses muscle memory to know where the keys are without the sense of sight. You can’t learn to swim without getting wet; likewise, you can’t learn to touch type by looking down at the keyboard. It might be hard at first but hang in there, and in no time it will become so natural you’ll forget the keyboard is even there!If you have trouble finding a key resist the urge to look down. Instead, use the onscreen virtual keyboard with orange highlights telling you where the key is and what finger to use. Put a towel over your hands if you still can’t resist.
Technique and Accuracy First Concentrate on correct form (using the right fingering, etc.) and accuracy above all else.Speed will be guaranteed through good technique and will come in time by practicing often. Proceeding with an incorrect technique will limit your potential speed in the future.
Typing Tutor Features
- Multiple Lesson FormatsTwo different typing lesson formats give you more options to choose how you like to learn:- Classic LessonsThere is a reason why these repetitive lessons are so common: they work really well for those just starting to learn touch-typing.Typing repeated letters in a random pattern is the fastest way to teach your mind how to automatically know where the keys are without you having to actually think about it – the basics of touch-typing.For those just starting to learn touch-typing try these – they work!- Advanced LessonsThese lessons are for those who might already have a basic understanding of the keyboard and need a quicker refresher or maybe learn some of the rarer keys better.Advanced lessons are designed to move quicker through learning the keys while also introducing words instead of random letters.Try both types of lessons to find the one you like best. Or, for best results, complete both sets!
- Multiple Lesson LengthsThe lesson length dropdown (under the method tabs in the left sidebar) allows you to customize the length of each lesson.
- Set target speed and accuracyNow you have the ability to set typing goals for your typing lessons! Simply set the typing speed and accuracy you would like to achieve and the typing tutor will track your progress, letting you know which lessons you have completed and which ones you should repeat to achieve your goals.As you improve and increase your target speed and accuracy, the tutor will automatically suggest lessons you should work on next!
- Custom LessonsSometimes there are just a few keys you can’t seem to remember. Simply enter the characters you wish to practice more in the left toolbar and click “Go!” to create a custom lesson for these keys, generated into random “words.”
- Restart Typing Lesson HotkeyKeep your hands on the keyboard – use keyboard shortcut “Shift-Return” to restart the typing lesson to help you concentrate and keep your hands in the home position where they belong.
Practice Frequently!
This free online typing tutor was designed to help you learn to type as fast and easy as possible. Try a few lessons a day and you’ll start to notice your fingers naturally move to the right keys. Even if it seems at times that you are making no improvement, keep on working at it and you will learn to type without looking! Remember to take breaks often though – its good for the body and for the learning!
1. Online Typing Tutors
Numerous online typing tutors are available, such as Typing.com, 10FastFingers, and Keybr. These platforms offer interactive lessons, practice exercises, and typing tests to help you build and refine your typing skills. Many of them are free, making them accessible to a wide audience.
2. Typing Games
Learning doesn’t have to be boring, and typing games are a fun way to improve your typing speed. Websites like Nitrotype and TypeRacer turn typing practice into an entertaining competition. By racing against others or the clock, you’ll naturally enhance your speed.
3. Touch Typing Techniques
One of the most effective ways to type faster is to learn touch typing. Touch typing involves typing without looking at the keyboard, using all your fingers, and placing them on the home row keys. You can find free touch typing tutorials and exercises on websites like Ratatype and TypingClub.
4. Keyboarding Apps
For those who prefer learning on the go, various keyboarding apps are available for smartphones and tablets. These apps often provide lessons and practice exercises designed for mobile devices, helping you improve your typing skills anytime, anywhere.
How can I learn speed typing for free?
If you’re looking to enhance your typing speed without spending a dime, there are plenty of free resources available. Here are some tips for learning speed typing for free:
1. Online Typing Tutors
As mentioned earlier, numerous websites offer free typing lessons and practice exercises. Typing.com, for instance, provides a comprehensive typing course without any cost, allowing you to track your progress as you go.
2. Open Source Typing Software
Open source typing software like Tux Typing and Klavaro Touch Typing Tutor can be downloaded for free. These programs offer a wide range of exercises to help you master touch typing and increase your typing speed over time.
3. Typing Games
Typing games like 10FastFingers and TypeRacer can be accessed without any charge. These games combine entertainment and skill development, making the learning process enjoyable and engaging.
4. YouTube Tutorials
YouTube is a treasure trove of free typing tutorials. You can find a variety of videos that guide you through touch typing techniques and exercises. Simply search for “free typing lessons” on YouTube, and you’ll find a wealth of valuable resources.
How can I increase my typing speed from 40 to 60 WPM?
If you’ve already reached a typing speed of 40 words per minute (WPM) and are aiming to hit 60 WPM or higher, you’re on the right track. Increasing your typing speed further will require dedication and practice. Here are some tips to help you bridge that gap:
1. Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is key to improvement. Dedicate time each day to practice typing. Use online typing tutors, games, and exercises to hone your skills.
2. Focus on Accuracy
While speed is important, accuracy matters too. Work on typing accurately first and then gradually increase your speed. Typing accurately at 50 WPM is better than typing hastily at 60 WPM with errors.
3. Touch Typing
If you’re not already using touch typing techniques, now is the time to learn. Touch typing allows you to type without looking at the keyboard, which significantly boosts your speed.
4. Typing Tests
Take typing tests regularly to assess your progress. Websites like 10FastFingers and TypeRacer offer timed tests that can help you track your WPM.
5. Typing Challenges
Set personal typing challenges. Try to increase your speed by a few WPM each week or month. Challenge yourself with longer texts to improve endurance.
6. Patience and Persistence
Increasing your typing speed is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and stay persistent. It might take some time to reach your goal, but with consistent effort, you’ll get there.
Which typing course is best?
Choosing the best typing course depends on your individual needs and learning style. Here are some of the most highly regarded typing courses and resources to consider:
1. Typesy
Typesy is a comprehensive typing program that offers touch typing courses and includes over 4,000 lessons, exercises, and videos. It’s suitable for beginners and advanced typists and provides personalized feedback to help you improve your typing skills.
2. Keybr
Keybr is a free, online touch typing tutor that focuses on teaching you how to touch type efficiently. It offers a clean and straightforward interface, making it easy for beginners to start learning.
3. TypingClub
TypingClub is a free and user-friendly typing course with lessons that cater to learners of all levels. It includes both touch typing and numeric keypad lessons.
4. Ratatype
Ratatype offers a structured touch typing course with various exercises and typing tests. It’s free to use and provides progress tracking to monitor your improvement.
5. Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing
Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing is a paid software program that has been a popular choice for many years. It offers interactive lessons and games to help learners of all levels improve their typing speed and accuracy.
The best typing course for you will depend on your current skill level, goals, and budget. It’s essential to try different resources and courses to find the one that suits you best. Remember that consistent practice and dedication are the keys to becoming a proficient typist, regardless of the course you choose.
