Learn how to touch type

Touch typing assumes that every finger is assigned a specific keyboard area. This allows you to type without needing to look at the keys. With regular practice, your fingers will memorise their positions through muscle memory, leading to faster and more accurate typing.

Optimal posture for typing

Maintain an upright posture, ensuring your back is aligned correctly.
Bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle.
Position your head slightly forward, facing the screen.
Maintain a 45 to 70 cm distance between your eyes and the screen.
Minimise strain on your shoulders, arms, and wrists. Your wrists may lightly rest on the tabletop, but avoid putting weight on them by leaning into your wrists.

Home row position

Rest your fingers lightly on the ASDF and JKL; keys in the middle row of the keyboard. This row, called the "Home Row," is your starting point and the base to which your fingers should always return.

The F and J keys, located beneath your index fingers, have raised bumps to help you locate them by touch without needing to look at the keyboard.

Keyboard scheme

Press each key only with the finger assigned to it.

The colour-coded keyboard beneath the input area will show which finger corresponds to each key.

Press each key only with the finger assigned to it.
Always bring your fingers back to the home row position: "ASDF – JKL;".
Create a steady rhythm when typing. Aim for consistent intervals between your keystrokes.
As you type, imagine where each symbol is located on the keyboard.
The SHIFT key should be pressed with the pinky of the hand opposite to the one pressing the primary key.
Press the Space bar using the thumb of the hand that feels most comfortable.

At first, this method might feel uncomfortable, but don't give up! Over time, you'll discover that typing becomes faster, easier, and more comfortable. To receive the best results, select a touch typing course based on your keyboard layout and preferred language.

Fingers motion

Resist the urge to look at the keys as you type. Allow your fingers to move smoothly, always returning to the home row keys.

Keep your hands and fingers close to the base position. Limit the movement of your fingers only to the necessary actions for pressing specific keys. This helps improve your typing speed and reduces the strain on your hands.

Be mindful of your ring and little fingers, as they are typically less developed than the other. With practice, these fingers will become stronger and more efficient in typing.

Typing speed

When you’re just starting, go slow and prioritise accuracy. Speed will come naturally as your fingers begin to find the right keys without effort.
Take your time while typing to avoid mistakes. Your average typing speed will naturally improve as you progress.
Always try to read a word or two ahead of what you're typing.
If you're struggling with typing, use a keyboard tester to check whether it's a software or hardware issue.
Finish all the touch typing lessons on Ratatype to help you exceed the average words per minute typing speed.

Take care of yourself

If you find yourself getting distracted or making too many errores, take a break. It's more effective to return when you're feeling refreshed and focused.

It's time to get some practice

Start learning

Test your speed

Hey! Want to make it more exciting? Join groups! Bring your friends along for group challenges and competitions. It’s also a great feature for teachers. And don’t miss out on trying the game mode ;)