Start with the home row
Place your fingers on the starting keys and return them there after each press. The home row is the row your fingers return to after reaching for another key.
F and J have small tactile bumps. They help you return your hands to the starting position without looking down.
Every finger has its own area
Do not reach for a key with any convenient finger. Use the finger assigned to that part of the keyboard, then return your hand closer to its starting position.
How to use Space and Shift
Space with a thumb
Keep your thumbs over Space. Press it with whichever thumb feels comfortable unless a course asks for something else.
Shift with the opposite hand
If the letter uses your left hand, use Right Shift. If it uses your right hand, use Left Shift.
Right Shift + A
Left Shift + J
Look at the screen, not the keyboard
Your speed will probably drop at first. That is normal. Look at the text on screen and let your fingers find the keys. Accuracy comes first; speed follows when movements become automatic.
Return fingers to the starting position
After a press, bring your fingers back near the home row. This helps you find the next key faster and look down less. Avoid moving your whole hand when a short reach is enough.
Common beginner mistakes
Looking down
It delays the muscle memory that touch typing needs.
Using any convenient finger
It feels quick early on but makes progress harder later.
Chasing speed
Aim for accurate, calm repetitions before trying to go faster.
Tense hands
Relax your shoulders and avoid pressing keys harder than necessary.
Before your first lesson
- Find F and J by their bumps.
- Place the other fingers on the home row.
- Keep a thumb over Space.
- Look at the screen.
- Return fingers toward home after each reach.
Frequently asked questions
Where should my fingers rest?
Rest them on the home row and return there after each reach.
Which finger presses Space?
Use either thumb, keeping both thumbs close to Space.
Which Shift key should I use?
Use the Shift key on the opposite side from the letter you type.
Should I look at the keyboard?
Try not to. Looking at the screen helps build reliable finger memory.
Ready to try it?
Use the first lesson to turn this map into comfortable movement.