TOUCH TYPIST Meaning and
Definition
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A touch typist is an individual who possesses the ability to type accurately and efficiently without looking at the keyboard. Through the mastery of touch typing, they are able to determine the location of each key on a keyboard by relying on muscle memory, resulting in increased typing speed and reduced errors. Touch typists typically maintain a consistent hand position on the keyboard known as the "home row," with their fingers positioned on specific keys.
Touch typing involves a systematic method called the "touch typing technique," wherein the typist uses all of their fingers to strike the keys, allowing for a fluid and rhythmical typing motion. The technique relies on spatial awareness, proprioception, and muscle memory to accurately type words and sentences without the need for visual reference. This allows the touch typist to focus their attention on the content they are typing rather than looking at the keyboard.
Touch typing skills are often developed through training programs that focus on proper finger placement, typing exercises, and repetitive practice. As a result, touch typists can achieve impressive typing speeds, often exceeding 60 words per minute or more. This proficiency in typing can be invaluable in various professional settings, such as secretarial work, data entry, transcription services, or any occupation that requires frequent and efficient use of a keyboard.
Overall, a touch typist is an individual who possesses the ability to type accurately and swiftly using muscle memory and spatial awareness, allowing for an increased level of productivity and proficiency in keyboard-related tasks.
Etymology of TOUCH TYPIST
The term "touch typist" is formed by combining the words "touch" and "typist".
The word "touch" comes from Middle English "touche" or Old French "tochier", which ultimately is derived from Vulgar Latin "toccāre". It carries the meaning of coming into contact with something by using the sense of touch.
The word "typist" is formed by combining the noun "type" and the suffix "-ist". "Type" can be traced back to the Latin word "typus", borrowed from Greek "typos" meaning "a blow, impression, mark, or figure". Over time, the word "type" started to be associated with writing and printing, particularly with the advent of typewriters.
Therefore, a "touch typist" refers to someone who can type efficiently using a keyboard, primarily relying on their sense of touch rather than looking at the keys.
