What Is Data Entry Alpha Numeric?

Data entry provides an entry level stepping stone to help you advance to higher-paying administrative positions.

Alphanumeric data entry is used to quickly transcribe information into a computer program database. This method uses the letters and number pad on a computer keyboard, as the number pad is much faster than using the number row on the standard keyboard.

Purpose

Alphanumeric data entry can be used to enter addresses, lists, customer information or medical records. Numeric data entry, commonly referred to as 10-key, uses only the number pad section of a computer keyboard to enter coding or large amounts or numeric data.

Skills

This type of data entry requires a skilled data entry operator with excellent attention to detail, spelling, grammar and punctuation. You must be able to accurately type using the regular keyboard while simultaneously using the number pad to complete alphanumeric data entry processing.

Job Requirements and Outlook

Training for data entry positions is sometimes provided on the job, but a typing speed of at least 35 words per minute without errors is usually required. Numeric data entry is measured in keystrokes per hour (ksph or kph). Jobs requiring this type of data entry usually prefer at least 8,000 ksph without errors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects data entry positions to decline by at least 6 percent by 2018 with more workers performing their own data entry.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Data Entry and Information Processing Workers

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Learn 2 Type: Typing Test
• Learn 2 Type: Take the FREE Ten Key Test