Fun Ways to Learn to Type Faster and Better

Since voice recognition software is still not at the level where it will surpass the keyboard, and since that will probably not happen anytime soon, knowing how to type well helps a good bit. Let's face it: hunt-and-peck is just not an efficient method of entering data into your computer. So you need to learn how to type better, or faster.

First you should learn how to type accurately and in the proper form. There are many great software titles you can find to teach you. Get an old standard version of Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing(v. 8.0) if you are the classroom-type person and you want a disciplined approach. Start off slow and learn gradually. The touch-typing method is smarter and faster than any other method. This is because you use all your fingers.

There are some great games both online and on CD-ROM that can teach you how to type faster, assuming you already have the method down. I would highly recommend you try to get a hold of The Typing of The Dead as long as you are older 17 and don't mind some violence mixed with a bit of immature humor thrown in. This game is really very novel and addicting, but it's hard to find. I do strongly believe it's the most fun way to learn to type faster and more accurately, however. But no problem if you can't get it - there are other ways.

Online, you can find some pretty good free typing tutors. If you head over to TypingTest.com you can get a diagnostic test first to see where you stand. They also have a really fun twist of the old PacMan game which forces you to type. Yet another fun choice is FreeTypingGame.net. On Yahoo! Games you can play Typer Shark, which is a PopCap Games production.

Also, if you like word games you'll find yourself having fun, learning some words, and improving your speed by playing games like the Yahoo selections of Word Racer, Text Twist, etc.

Another way to improve your typing speed is through online chatting. Here I warn you: this may lead to problems. Typing too much for extended periods of times may lead to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This is an issue with the games also, but it happens more with the typing, because of the human-interaction that may keep you hooked on the computer. Also, with chatting you may be chatting with 20 people at once, which forces you to type non-stop for hours. You should insert a "brb" instead of putting your health at risk.

So take breaks about every 20 minutes to let your hands rest for a little(and your eyes - look around a little). Also, while typing keep your hands parallel and about an inch floating above the keyboard. Don't rest your palms on the keyboard, as this can cause more problems in your wrist. Perhaps get a higher chair if you need it. Also you're back should be straight and you should be comfortably aligned.

On Mavis Beacon you can hit two birds with one stone by practicing typing on some of your favorite lyrics, quotes, jokes, etc. Perhaps practice typing something you need to memorize anyway.

Another fun way to improve your typing speed is to become a member of a Associated Content or Yahoo! Answers and submit articles on topics you like.