1. Key Repeat: Physical keys on a keyboard typically facilitate key repetition, allowing typists to hold down a key and have it continue producing characters on the screen without repeated pressing and releasing. The ability to hold keys also aids in maintaining rhythm and speed while typing.
2. Muscle Memory: With typing, our fingers learn the location of keys through muscle memory. Instead of consciously looking for each key, the fingers instinctively know where they are, improving speed and accuracy.
3. Multi-Finger Typing: Typing involves using multiple fingers to press different keys simultaneously. The more fingers are involved, the faster text can be entered, as several keys can be pressed at once to form words.
4. Ergonomics: Typing can promote better ergonomic posture compared to handwriting, as the keyboard and monitor are at eye level, reducing strain on the neck and back. This physical comfort can contribute to sustained speed during typing.
5. Instantaneous Display: Unlike handwriting, where you need to wait for ink to dry or erase and rewrite, typed text appears on the screen immediately. This instant feedback allows for quick changes, additions, or deletions, maintaining speed and avoiding pauses.
6. Digital Tools and Shortcuts: Computers provide various tools and shortcuts to enhance typing speed. Options like auto-correct, spell check, and word prediction help reduce errors, while customized keyboard shortcuts enable quick execution of tasks, contributing to overall efficiency.
7. Practice: Consistent practice and training can significantly improve typing speed over time. With dedicated practice, individuals can develop muscle memory and become more familiar with the keyboard, allowing them to type faster.