How to Learn the Keyboard on a Computer by Heart

Learn how to touch type.

Many typists memorize the layout of keys on their keyboard to increase the speed at which they type. They avoid wasting the time it takes to look back and forth between keyboard and computer screen. Learning to touch type can mean hours of practice, but the more time you invest in the exercise, the faster you will get at typing without looking at the keys.

Things You'll Need

• Computer keyboard
• Typing tutorial program
• Keyboard cover

Instructions

1. Download a typing tutorial program or visit a website that offers free typing lessons online. Typing tutors help you memorize the keys on the keyboard by training your finger's muscle memory. Use the typing lessons provided by the typing tutor to train your fingers to hit the right key.

2. Avoid looking at the keyboard. Looking at the keyboard slows the memorization process. If your fingers get lost while practicing, feel the keys for two Braille bumps. These bumps are placed on the "F" and "J" keys and indicate where your index fingers should rest in the "home position."

3. Purchase a keyboard cover to hide the keys from your vision if you can't help but look at the keyboard while you practice. Some covers are simple boxes that cover the keyboard. Other keyboard covers are vinyl or rubber mats that cover the keys themselves and obscure the letters.

4. Practice every day. You will memorize the keyboard layout faster if you practice your typing skills. You can practice by using word processors, browsing the Internet and using your typing tutorial program. Learning to touch type takes roughly 10 to 15 hours of solid practice, so practice whenever you get the opportunity.

References

• Microtype: Learning to Touch-Type
• Typingsoft: Technique of Touch Typing
• State University of West Georgia: Instructional Strategies Of Teaching Keyboarding