Technology is evolving faster than your inbox fills up after a long weekend. Yet, one skill that hasn’t lost its relevance in the workplace is being able to type fast.
Sure, tools like voice recognition and AI assistants are on the rise, but typing remains a fundamental part of day-to-day productivity—for both traditional office workers and remote professionals.
Whether you’re drafting emails, preparing reports, or frantically updating a presentation 10 minutes before a meeting, your typing speed can deeply impact how quickly (and efficiently) you get things done. The idea that typing fast is only important for writers or data entry clerks couldn’t be further from the truth.
This post will break down why typing fast is still an invaluable skill in today’s workplace and how it can help you stay ahead, no matter your profession.
Why Typing Speed Matters
If you’re thinking, “Do I really need to be able to type fast?,” the short answer is yes. Here’s why.
1 – Saves You Time
Typing quickly doesn’t just shave minutes off your day—it saves HOURS over the course of a week. Think about how much of your work involves using a keyboard. Now think about how much faster you could complete your daily tasks if you could type without hesitating over each key. The sooner the typing is done, the more time you’ll have for higher-value activities (or even that much-needed coffee break).
2 – Helps You Communicate Effectively
We live in an era dominated by digital communication. Emails, chat platforms like Slack, and even text messages are the lifelines of most professional environments. Typing quickly ensures that your responses are not just prompt but also well-considered. Slow typing might lead to forgetting key thoughts or coming across as unresponsive, especially in high-pressure situations.
3 – Boosts Productivity During Remote Work
Remote work has skyrocketed, and with it has come a reliance on digital documentation and cloud-based collaboration. If you’re in a meeting and need to jot down notes or proposals in real time, a sluggish typing speed can lead to missing key points. You’ll also find collaborative tools like Google Docs highly unforgiving if you’re unable to keep up with an active brainstorming session.
4 – Reduces Stress Under Tight Deadlines
We’ve all had those moments where a deadline looms closer, and every second feels like it’s mocking you. Typing at a faster pace means you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed during crunch times. It’s easier to stay calm when you know you’ll finish in time.
5 – Sets You Apart in the Job Market
Employers love efficiency. While jobs might not list “fast typer” as an explicit requirement, effective communication and time management often hinge on it. You’ll stand out as someone who can get work done quickly and accurately.
Which Professions Benefit From Typing Fast?
Typing fast isn’t just a skill for writers or journalists. It holds value in a variety of fields, including some you might not expect.
• Customer Support Representatives
Answering tickets or responding to clients in real time requires fast and accurate typing to ensure clear communication.
• Software Developers
While coding involves more than just typing, the ability to quickly write and troubleshoot is key to staying efficient during long hours of development.
• Project Managers
From drafting project timelines to updating reports or sending out urgent communications, project managers can save big on time by typing fast.
• Students and Academics
Taking lecture notes, typing out research papers, or collaborating on group projects becomes so much easier when you can type quickly.
• Entrepreneurs
Running your own business often means wearing multiple hats. Faster typing speeds allow you to handle administrative tasks quicker and focus on scaling your venture.
How to Evaluate and Improve Your Typing Speed
Not sure where you stand? A simple typing test can help you figure out your current speed in words per minute (WPM). Generally, anything below 40 WPM could use some improvement.
3 Tips to Improve Your Typing Skills:
1 – Develop Muscle Memory
Practice is key. Set aside time daily to familiarize yourself with the placement of each key until hitting the right ones becomes second nature.
2 – Focus on Accuracy First
Speed without accuracy is like running a race in the wrong direction. Work on eliminating typos, and the speed will follow naturally.
3 – Use Proper Hand Placement
Adopt the “home row” position, where your fingers rest on A, S, D, F (left hand) and J, K, L, ; (right hand). This positioning allows you to reach other keys with minimal movement.
Typing Beyond Efficiency
Fast typing isn’t just about productivity—it can also boost confidence and creativity. When you’re not bogged down by slow typing, you find it easier to express your ideas and take ownership of your work. Think of it as clearing out a bottleneck in your brain’s workflow.
Being able to type quickly and efficiently can also help in personal development. Writing reports, brainstorming ideas, crafting proposals, or taking notes during online courses—all of these activities get a boost when typing becomes second nature.
Faster Fingers – Brighter Future
Mastering the skill of fast typing opens up a world of professional advantages. Whether you’re acing a report, participating in a real-time collaboration, or sending out quick client responses, your keyboard prowess can help you stand out from the crowd. It’s a simple but powerful skill that saves time, reduces stress, and increases results in nearly every profession.
So, are your fingers overdue for a little training? Take a typing test today to see where you stand—your future self will thank you.