How to Improve 10-Key Skills

"Ten key" is the skill of typing using a numerical keyboard. You can improve your 10-key skills so you're equally as fast and efficient with the numbers as you are with the letters. This can open doors for you at work and increase your technical skill set for your resume.

Instructions

1. Learn the placement of the numbers on the 10-key numerical pad. Practice typing each number with the appropriate finger, and continue this process until you can easily strike the right number with the right finger without looking at the keypad.

2. Slow down if you find yourself making too many mistakes. Let accuracy be your main goal. As you perform more and more 10-keying, you'll automatically develop the speed.

3. Build up your speed and accuracy by practicing telephone numbers. Create a list of telephone numbers or use your church or work directory. Use your 10-key skills to create a list of those numbers.

4. Take advantage of online tutorials that help you with your 10-key skills (see Resources). Tutorials can provide you with unfamiliar data and show you your current 10-key accuracy and speed. You can also purchase software programs, many of which offer free trials to let you explore the program before you purchase.

5. Ask if your office has a continuing education program in place. You may be able to take 10-key classes at work, or they may pay for a 10-key class you take on your own time.

Resources

• Free online 10-key test