Typing rhythm

Typing rhythm is the alternation of keystrokes at equal intervals of time. The shorter the intervals between keystrokes, the higher the typing speed

Tip: When working on a computer, it is important to maintain a consistent rhythm and press keys evenly. Only in this way can high typing speed be achieved

Keystrokes should be light and brief but sharp, without holding the finger on the key, and finger movements toward the keys in their respective zones should be precise. The keystroke is performed with the fingertips, with the hands also participating in the movement. When typing, the hands are raised about 1–2 cm above the keyboard, then the required key is pressed quickly and decisively, after which the finger returns to the home position. The force of the keystroke should be sufficient to keep the motion sharp and distinct

Tip: To type quickly, maintain an even rhythm while gradually increasing the tempo by reducing the time intervals between keystrokes

From the very first lessons, it is important to develop independent finger movement: when one finger presses a key, the others remain relaxed. Finger muscles should engage only during the keystroke and relax immediately afterward

The requirements commonly applied to computer operators allow you to evaluate your own skill level:

• advanced level: no more than 0.5% errors, speed at least 200 characters per minute
• intermediate level: no more than 1.0% errors, speed at least 150 characters per minute
• basic level: no more than 2.0% errors, speed at least 100 characters per minute

At the initial stage, it is helpful to mentally pronounce the letters you are about to type. A normal typing speed at the beginning of training is considered to be 50–70 characters per minute; later it increases, reaching 200–300 characters per minute. Each lesson should last at least 30 minutes

Tip: Do not chase speed, pay special attention to accuracy. Typing speed increases naturally during everyday work once you have fully mastered the keyboard

Automatic finger movement develops through prolonged practice. The touch typing method can be considered mastered only when the typist no longer consciously controls finger movements on the keyboard. Typing speed with the touch typing method increases by one and a half to two times, and overall quality improves. By using the ten-finger touch typing method, it is possible to reach record speeds, ideally up to 500 keystrokes per minute