Correct Hand Position in Typing

Even though the space bar is the most commonly used key, training programs have a lack of focus on it. Most novices view the space bar as an obstruction in the road. In contrast, expert typists view it as a “rhythm regulator.” Correct hand positioning while typing should have your thumb “floating” above the space bar, ready to tap it, as opposed to resting on it.

The Single-Thumb Principle

The majority of professional typists use a single thumb (generally the right) to hit the space bar. If you use both thumbs, you are adding an extra layer of decision-making for your brain, which loses you milliseconds every time you type a word. By having a good hand position, along with using a single thumb for the space bar, you streamline your motor functions. This means your brain is able to perceive the “Word + Space” combination as one seamless motion, not two separate actions.

Space bar as a rhythm reset

Every press of the space bar should count as a positive reset in the 2-minute test. With every space bar press, your brain should reset and clear the word processed and focus on the word coming next. If you slam down the space bar too hard, you could lose your hand position and it could lead to a mistake, so aim for a clean tap. During this lesson, concentrate on aiming for the exact middle of the bar. If you strike the bar from the sides, you could cause it to get stuck, and not provide the feedback required to help you maintain a good speed. Space bar latency Most typists are fast on the letters, but slow on the gaps. This lesson is all about how to reduce the bar’s contact time with your thumb. Pretend the space bar is hot, and you are trying to touch it as little as possible. The quicker you are with it, the more it will feel this way. This is especially important to keep your hands light and to prevent the sluggish feeling during an endurance test in the second minute.