I recently graduated with a computer science degree and have been applying for entry-level positions in software engineering and security. Although no one has mentioned my typing technique, I've always typed using two fingers on each hand. I can hit around 65-70 words per minute with more than 97% accuracy, but I find myself looking at the keyboard about 30% of the time. This method has worked for me so far, but I sometimes feel like my brain is moving faster than my fingers. I'm considering whether I should learn to touch type. However, I have large hands, and when I try the home row position, it feels cramped. Plus, my long arms make it uncomfortable to maintain the proper wrist angle. I'm curious if there are other programmers out there with unique typing methods. Besides boosting my productivity, I also worry about the perception of not knowing how to touch type as a tech professional. Am I overthinking this? Should I make the change?
5 Answers
Just give it a shot! The odds of some disaster from touch typing practice are pretty low. It's more about getting used to it than anything else.
Getting the right keyboard can make a big difference. I switched to an ergonomic split keyboard, and it's been a game changer for me as a data engineer working long hours.
That’s definitely something I’m considering! Thanks for the tip!
I totally recommend it! The return on investment is major. Think of it this way: touch typing is like driving with both hands, not just two fingers! I found that hanging a diagram of the keyboard near my screen really helped me adjust without looking down.
Absolutely! You can pick it up in just a couple of weeks if you practice 15 minutes a day. There are plenty of fun gamified websites that make it enjoyable. Eventually, you'll find that your thoughts are racing ahead of your typing speed, so learning it will definitely be beneficial.
Yeah, but when I'm working on my laptop, should I just keep typing normally? I feel like if I'm committing to it, I should go all in!
Yes, yes, yes! You're currently hitting 65 wpm mainly because you're looking down at the keyboard. Plus, consider getting a split keyboard. Just like you wouldn’t drive a car using only two fingers, having the proper technique will help in the long run.
Lol, fair point! I guess I should focus on improving my setup, right?
Definitely! Using keyboard shortcuts will save you tons of time compared to using a mouse.
Haha, right? It's not like anyone has been injured from practicing touch typing!