How to Improve Your Typing Speed: 10 Proven Tips
Learn the most effective techniques to increase your typing speed from 40 WPM to 80+ WPM. Discover proper finger placement, practice methods, and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Summary
Improving your typing speed requires consistent practice, proper technique, and patience. The key is to focus on accuracy first, then gradually increase speed. Most people can improve from 40 WPM to 80+ WPM within 2-3 months of regular practice.
- • Practice 15-30 minutes daily
- • Master the home row position
- • Focus on accuracy before speed
- • Use all 10 fingers properly
- • Avoid looking at the keyboard
10 Proven Tips to Improve Your Typing Speed
1Master the Home Row Position
Place your fingers on the home row keys (ASDF for left hand, JKL; for right hand). This is the foundation of touch typing.
- Left hand: A (pinky), S (ring), D (middle), F (index)
- Right hand: J (index), K (middle), L (ring), ; (pinky)
- Keep your fingers curved and relaxed
- Return to home row after each keystroke
2Practice Daily for 15-30 Minutes
Consistency is key. Short, regular practice sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones.
- Set a daily practice schedule
- Use typing tests and exercises
- Track your progress over time
- Don't skip days, even if it's just 10 minutes
3Focus on Accuracy Before Speed
Speed will come naturally once you master accuracy. Rushing leads to bad habits.
- Aim for 95%+ accuracy first
- Slow down if you're making mistakes
- Use backspace to correct errors immediately
- Build muscle memory through repetition
4Use Proper Finger Placement
Each finger has specific keys it should press. Learn the correct finger-to-key mapping.
- Left pinky: Q, A, Z, 1, Tab, Caps Lock
- Left ring: W, S, X, 2
- Left middle: E, D, C, 3
- Left index: R, T, F, G, V, B, 4, 5
- Right index: Y, U, H, J, N, M, 6, 7
- Right middle: I, K, 8
- Right ring: O, L, 9
- Right pinky: P, ;, 0, [, ], \, Enter
5Avoid Looking at the Keyboard
Touch typing means typing without looking. This is essential for speed and accuracy.
- Cover your hands with a cloth if needed
- Use keyboard stickers or blank keys
- Practice with your eyes closed
- Trust your muscle memory
6Use Online Typing Tools
Leverage typing tests, games, and exercises to make practice engaging and effective.
- Take typing tests regularly
- Use typing games for motivation
- Try different text types and difficulties
- Compete with others for motivation
7Practice with Different Text Types
Vary your practice material to improve overall typing skills and adaptability.
- Practice with news articles
- Try technical documents
- Use creative writing prompts
- Practice with numbers and symbols
8Take Regular Breaks
Prevent fatigue and repetitive strain injuries with proper rest periods.
- Take a 5-minute break every 25 minutes
- Stretch your fingers and wrists
- Look away from the screen
- Stand up and move around
9Use Ergonomic Equipment
Proper setup prevents injuries and improves comfort during long typing sessions.
- Use an ergonomic keyboard if possible
- Keep your wrists straight
- Position your monitor at eye level
- Use a comfortable chair with good back support
10Track Your Progress
Monitor your improvement to stay motivated and identify areas for improvement.
- Record your WPM and accuracy daily
- Set realistic goals (e.g., increase by 5 WPM per month)
- Celebrate milestones and achievements
- Identify patterns in your mistakes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Looking at the keyboard while typing
Practice with covered hands or use typing software that hides the keyboard
Using only 2-3 fingers instead of all 10
Learn proper finger placement and force yourself to use all fingers
Rushing to type fast before mastering accuracy
Focus on accuracy first, speed will come naturally with practice
Poor posture and hand positioning
Sit up straight, keep wrists straight, and maintain proper finger curvature
Not practicing regularly
Set a daily practice schedule and stick to it, even if it's just 10 minutes
Ready to Practice?
Now that you know the techniques, put them into practice with our advanced typing tests. Track your progress and see your speed improve over time!