How to Ten Key

Typing lessons typically teach the use of the numbers above the keyboard for entering numerical data. That's fine, if you're typing the occasional address, but if you have a lot of numbers to enter, you should learn to use the ten-key, typically to the right of a standard keyboard. Like touch-typing, you can learn to key in data this way without looking.

Steps

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Make sure number lock is on. Press the Num Lock button until the corresponding light is on.
- If the number lock is not on, pressing keys on the number pad will generally do the other thing that is written on them, typically some combination of arrow and page up/page down keys.^{[1]XResearch source}
Often, there will be a small dimple or ridge on this key so that you can easily find it by feel.
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This is the "home row" position for ten-key work.
Type the 7 with your index finger, the 8 with your middle finger, and the 9 with your ring finger. Bring your fingers back to the home row when you are done with each of these digits.
Type the 1 with your index finger, the 2 with your middle finger, and the 3 with your ring finger. Return your fingers to the home row when you are done with each of these digits.
This is part of the "home row" position, too.
Learn the decimal point key and work on entering decimal data. Type the decimal point with the ring finger. Practice typing decimal numbers.
You will press 'enter' with your pinkie, and this completes the "home row" position. You may reach the + with either your pinkie or your ring finger, whichever is most comfortable for you. These buttons enable you to type operations directly into most calculator programs, spreadsheets, and the like.
As you continue to use the ten-key, you will get more fluent at it.^{[2]XResearch source}

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Question
It seems like my fingers are too short and too long! What is the easiest way to remember the keys?
Community Answer
Just try to adjust your hand and fingers to make it easier, or try stretching exercises for it.
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When I have a space between numbers, which finger should be used for the space bar?
Tomáš Břoušek
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The other hand, left middle finger or index finger. Right hand is resting above your numerical keypad.
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Why would anyone want to do this?
Community Answer
It's useful for people in the business world because their fingers don't have to move as much to hit the decimal point key, the plus sign, and more.
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Tips

Removable ten-key pads are available that plug in separately. Get one if you want to place yours on the left or you would like one to go with a laptop.
- Some laptops have a ten-key option at an angle in the middle of the standard, alphabetical keyboard. You will probably have to use a function key to turn it on.^{[3]XResearch source}
- Some laptops have a built in ten-key pad on the right side, but the keys are smaller than normal. The key layout is usually the same, however.
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Do not look at your hands. Learn the ten-key by feel and you will be able to enter information with it much more quickly.
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Note that telephones and some calculators and other keypads are arranged differently than computer keyboards. They have the 1 on the top and the 9 on the bottom.
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Warnings

As with touch typing the main keyboard, use a relaxed, neutral hand position when doing ten-key work. If you have any pain or stiffness, take a break. Take steps to prevent repetitive stress injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome.
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