Touch typing

Unterricht im Blindschreiben

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Touch typing is a typing method where an individual types without the need to look at the keyboard. This technique involves memorizing the keyboard layout and using muscle memory to find keys, allowing for more efficient and faster typing. Touch typing is considered an essential skill in the modern world, where computer use is prevalent in both personal and professional settings.

History

The concept of touch typing originated with the invention of the typewriter in the 19th century. Early typing methods were slow and cumbersome, requiring the typist to hunt for each key. The introduction of the QWERTY keyboard layout, designed by Christopher Sholes in 1873, aimed to prevent jamming in mechanical typewriters by spacing out commonly used letter combinations. Over time, this layout became standard, and methods were developed to utilize muscle memory rather than sight to increase typing speed and efficiency.

Technique

Touch typing involves placing the eight fingers on a set of home keys in the middle row of the keyboard (ASDF for the left hand and JKL; for the right hand), with the thumbs resting on the space bar. Each finger is responsible for pressing keys in a specific area of the keyboard. Proper posture and hand position are crucial to effectively touch type.

The process of learning to touch type involves practice and repetition to build muscle memory. Beginners may start by learning the positions of individual keys and gradually progress to typing words, sentences, and paragraphs without looking at the keyboard. Various software programs and online tools are available to assist in learning touch typing.

Benefits

Touch typing offers several advantages over the hunt-and-peck method or looking at the keyboard while typing:

• Increased Productivity: Touch typists can type faster and more accurately, leading to increased efficiency in writing and data entry tasks.
• Reduced Fatigue: Proper hand positioning and technique can reduce strain on the hands and eyes, leading to less fatigue during long typing sessions.
• Improved Focus: By eliminating the need to look at the keyboard, typists can focus more on the content they are creating or editing.

Learning Touch Typing

Learning to touch type is a process that can vary in length depending on the individual. Consistent practice is key to developing the skill. Many educational institutions incorporate touch typing into their curriculum. Additionally, a wide range of touch typing tutorials, games, and tests are available online to support learners at all levels.

See Also

• Keyboard layout
• Ergonomics
• Computer literacy

Touch typing Resources
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