Start with the home row. When it feels easy, add the top row, then the bottom row. Stop-on-error is on, so the drill waits until you press the right key.
The home row position
Rest your left fingers on A, S, D and F and your right fingers on J, K, L and ;. Your thumbs hover over the space bar. The F and J keys have small bumps so you can find this position without looking.
Which finger presses which key
Each finger moves up and down a slanted column from its home key:
| Finger | Left hand | Right hand |
|---|---|---|
| Index | R T F G V B (and 4 5) | Y U H J N M (and 6 7) |
| Middle | E D C (and 3) | I K , (and 8) |
| Ring | W S X (and 2) | O L . (and 9) |
| Pinky | Q A Z, Shift, Tab (and 1) | P ; / ' [ ], Enter, Shift (and 0) |
| Thumb | Space | Space |
Why touch typing is worth learning
Looking down at your keys breaks your concentration every few words. Touch typists keep their eyes on the screen, catch mistakes sooner and type faster with less strain on the neck. Most people who learn it go well past their old speed within a couple of months.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to learn touch typing?
Most people learn the full keyboard in 2-4 weeks of 15-20 minutes a day. Speed keeps improving for months after that.
Is it okay to look at the keyboard while learning?
Try not to. Use the on-screen keyboard instead - it builds the habit of keeping your eyes on the screen.
Which thumb should press the space bar?
Either thumb is fine. Many typists use the thumb of the hand that didn't type the last letter.