The Number Row

In our first three Lessons we covered the first three letter rows of the keyboard. This being our fourth lesson, we shall, in keeping with custom, cover the fourth row. The Number Row.

The left index finger will control the 4 and 5 keys, the right index finger will control the 6 and 7 keys.

The left middle finger will control the 3 key, the right middle finger will control the 8 key.

The left ring finger will control the 2 key, the right ring finger will control the 9 key.

The left little finger will control the 1 key, the right little finger will control the 0 key.

LF = Little Finger,  RF = Ring Finger,  MF = Middle Finger,  IF = Index Finger

The number row presents a unique challenge to the typist. It is the furthest from the typist's finger's resting position, the home row. These exercises will attempt to accustom you to the range of movement your fingers must achieve when dealing with a mixture of alpha-numeric keystrokes.

We shall also, in this lesson, build on our use of the shift keys and capital letters introduced in the last lesson. To test your geography, and because we felt the pun too fine to overlook we shall make extensive use of capitals, in our practice of, capitals.

While your fingers hone their skills you can also dream a little as names of far flung places evoke memory and imagination. What wonders these places may hold, what customs its people practice and what mysteries you might there unravel.

The Number Pad

The Number Pad keys are arranged in four columns and five rows.

When at rest the fingers of the typist's Right Hand are positioned, lightly, on the 4 - 5 - 6 - + keys.  The 5 key often has a small raised bump on its top, a tactile aid for the typist.

● The right index finger will control the Num Lock - 7 - 4 - 1 keys.

● The right middle finger will control the / - 8 - 5 - 2 keys.

● The right ring finger will control the * - 9 - 6 - 3 -  . keys.

● The right little finger will control the - - + - Enter keys.

● The 0 is controlled by the right thumb.

LF = Little Finger,  RF = Ring Finger,  MF = Middle Finger,  IF = Index Finger

The locations of all the other keys on the number pad are learnt in relation to this home key so the touch-typist must be able to locate the home key by touch.

Using the raised bump on the 5 key as a guide, see if you can correctly place your fingers on the 4-5-6-+ keys without looking at the keyboard. No peeking.