How to type faster on a computer
Typing faster isn't just hitting keys more quickly: it's also typing less. Here are eight tips that work from day one.
Emails, messages, reports, chats: we spend much of the day typing. Gaining speed adds up to a huge difference over a week.
There are two paths and it's worth combining them: type better and type less. Here are eight tips for both.
Type better
1. Learn to touch type
Typing with all ten fingers without looking at the keyboard is the biggest long-term improvement. A few minutes a day with a free typing program is enough to notice the difference within weeks.
2. Prioritize accuracy
Fixing mistakes takes longer than typing a bit more slowly. Speed comes naturally when you make fewer errors.
3. Use keyboard shortcuts
Copy, paste, undo, jump word by word with Ctrl and the arrows, or select with Shift. We've collected the most useful ones in our guide to Chrome keyboard shortcuts.
4. Mind your posture and keyboard
A comfortable keyboard and good posture reduce fatigue and mistakes over long days.
Type less
5. Use voice dictation
Windows, macOS and Google Docs include dictation. For long drafts it can be faster than typing; then you just edit.
6. Take advantage of suggestions
Features like Smart Compose in Gmail suggest how to finish your sentence. Accept the suggestion with Tab when it's right.
7. Save what you repeat
Signatures, replies, addresses, explanations: if you type it more than once a week, save it as a template with a text shortcut.
8. Let AI write the first draft
For emails that are different every time, AI can give you a first draft that you then adjust. We explain how in our guide to replying to emails with AI.
The fastest shortcut: not typing it
However fast you type, nothing beats not having to type at all. With NexoPad you save your usual texts with a shortcut, like /meeting, and insert them on any website by typing those few letters. If the text includes details that change, NexoPad asks for them first.
And if you forget a shortcut, type // and search for it by name or by a word from the text. Within a few weeks you'll have your own text library that saves you hours every month.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to learn touch typing?
It depends on the person and the practice. With a few minutes a day, you'll notice the improvement within weeks.
What is a text expander?
A tool that turns a short shortcut into a full text. We explain it in what is a text expander.
Does voice dictation work well?
Yes, the dictation built into Windows, macOS and Google Docs works in many languages. Always review the text afterwards.
Does NexoPad work in any program?
It works in the browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera and Brave), on any website where you type.
Published on October 11, 20266 min read
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