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Touch typing finger placement: which finger types which key
Touch typing means typing without looking at the keys, with each finger responsible for its own set of keys. It is the foundation of both speed and accuracy.
Start on the home row
Rest your left fingers on A, S, D and F and your right fingers on J, K, L and semicolon. Your thumbs rest on the space bar. Most keyboards have small bumps on F and J so that you can find the home position without looking.
Which finger types which key
| Finger | Keys |
|---|---|
| Left pinky | 1, Q, A, Z |
| Left ring | 2, W, S, X |
| Left middle | 3, E, D, C |
| Left index | 4, 5, R, T, F, G, V, B |
| Right index | 6, 7, Y, U, H, J, N, M |
| Right middle | 8, I, K, comma |
| Right ring | 9, O, L, full stop |
| Right pinky | 0, P, semicolon, slash and the keys beside them |
Shift, numbers and symbols
Use the shift key on the opposite hand to the letter you are capitalising: the right pinky for letters typed by the left hand and the left pinky for the right. Return your fingers to the home row after every reach.
Habits that build speed
- Keep your eyes on the screen.
- Type at an even rhythm; do not hurry.
- Return to the home row after each reach.
- When you make a mistake, notice which finger made it and practise that key.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I really need touch typing for a job test?
It is not required by name, but it is the most reliable way to reach the speeds job tests ask for, because looking at the keys slows you down.
Which finger types the space bar?
Either thumb. Most people use the thumb of their dominant hand.
How long does it take to learn touch typing?
It varies. Short daily practice over several weeks is a common path.