How to Type 90 WPM: Techniques for Transcriptionists

Why 90 WPM Matters

Every 10 WPM increase translates directly to higher hourly earnings. At 60 WPM with a 4:1 turnaround ratio earning $1/audio minute, you make $15/hour. At 90 WPM (3:1 ratio), you make $20/hour at the same rate.

The Path to 90 WPM

Step 1: Master Touch Typing (Weeks 1-4)

Goal: Type without looking at keyboard

Tools:

• Keybr.com - Adaptive algorithm finds your weak keys
• TypingClub - Gamified lessons
• Typing.com - Free structured course

Practice regimen: 30 minutes daily, focus on accuracy over speed. 95% accuracy minimum before increasing speed.

Step 2: Text Expanders (Immediate 20% Speed Boost)

Text expanders let you type shortcuts that automatically expand to full phrases.

Essential shortcuts for transcriptionists:

• ts → [00:00:00] (timestamp format)
• sp1 → [Speaker 1]
• sp2 → [Speaker 2]
• inaud → [inaudible]
• mhm → Mm-hmm.
• uhuh → Uh-huh.

Best text expander software:

• Windows: AutoHotkey (free), PhraseExpress (free up to 10 phrases)
• Mac: TextExpander ($40/year), Alfred Powerpack ($34 one-time)
• Cross-platform: aText ($5 one-time)

Step 3: Optimize Your Workspace

• Keyboard height: Elbows at 90 degrees, wrists straight
• Monitor position: Top of screen at eye level, 20-26 inches away
• Chair: Feet flat on floor, lumbar support
• Lighting: Reduce glare, avoid backlighting

Step 4: Prevent Repetitive Strain Injury

Take breaks: 5 minutes every hour. Stretch wrists, shake out hands.

Wrist stretches:

• Prayer stretch (palms together, lower to waist)
• Reverse prayer stretch (backs of hands together)
• Wrist circles (10 each direction)

Step 5: Speed Drills (Weeks 5-12)

Once you hit 70 WPM with 95% accuracy, focus on speed.

Drill: Type for 1 minute at 110% of your current max speed (accept errors). Then type for 5 minutes at 95% speed (focus on accuracy). Repeat 6 times. Do daily.

Expected Timeline

Next Steps