Education
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Learn to Type?

Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen

If you want to learn to type, you have several options. If you have access to a computer, you have the option of using typing software, and if you have Internet access, you may be able to learn to type online through web-based typing classes. Finally, you may also have access to classroom-based typing courses through local schools or adult education programs. Typing classes are typically inexpensive, with some online and software typing programs being available free of charge.

Many people find typing to be a necessary skill for many jobs. In some cases, the ability to type quickly is an actual job requirement, while in other cases it is simply a skill that can greatly improve a person's ability to perform her job. Students likewise find typing helpful when writing papers for their classes. In fact, your school or employer may offer typing classes, so be sure to check your school's course catalog or talk to your human resources department about class offerings. If your workplace doesn't offer typing classes, ask your benefits department or supervisor if your employer would pay or reimburse you for the cost of taking a class from an outside school or course vendor.

Introductory typing courses will focus on the home keys, which are an important part of typing quickly and accurately.
Introductory typing courses will focus on the home keys, which are an important part of typing quickly and accurately.

Some people feel that they learn best when working with an instructor in a classroom. You may want to start with adult education programs, as these typically offer inexpensive classes scheduled at convenient times, such as evenings and weekends. If you cannot find an adult education program that offers typing classes in your area, you may want to contact companies that offer computer classes. Sometimes major electronics stores have a computer training division that offers classes, and there may be an independent computer training school in your area that includes typing classes among its offerings. Some vocational schools, particularly those that train office administrators and secretaries, include typing classes in their curriculum.

Local schools or community colleges may offer classroom-based typing courses.
Local schools or community colleges may offer classroom-based typing courses.

Many people learn to type by completing a computer-based typing course. These classes are available both online and in the form of educational software. Some of these courses can be had for free, though others must be purchased. It may be to your advantage to read reviews on computer-based typing classes so as to select a good one for your needs. Even if you learn to type from a classroom course, you may find that you learn to type faster by supplementing your instruction with online typing games or classes.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Introductory typing courses will focus on the home keys, which are an important part of typing quickly and accurately.
      By: NOBU
      Introductory typing courses will focus on the home keys, which are an important part of typing quickly and accurately.
    • Local schools or community colleges may offer classroom-based typing courses.
      By: yanlev
      Local schools or community colleges may offer classroom-based typing courses.