10-key typing: how to use the numeric keypad
The numeric keypad is the fastest way to enter numbers. Here is the hand position, the finger for each key and how speed is measured.
"10-key" means typing numbers on the numeric keypad on the right of a full-size keyboard, without looking. It is a core skill in data entry, accounting, banking, payroll and retail back-office work, and many employers test it separately from regular typing.
Home position
Rest your right hand on the middle row of the keypad: index finger on 4, middle finger on 5 (it has a small bump) and ring finger on 6. Your thumb rests on 0 and your little finger reaches for Enter and +.
Which finger presses which key
- Index finger: 7, 4, 1
- Middle finger: 8, 5, 2 and /
- Ring finger: 9, 6, 3, the decimal point and *
- Little finger: Enter, + and -
- Thumb: 0
How 10-key speed is measured
10-key speed is counted in keystrokes per hour (KPH): every key you press, including Enter, multiplied out to an hour. Net KPH subtracts errors. Data entry postings commonly ask for something like 8,000 to 12,000 KPH with high accuracy, but requirements vary by employer. The 10-key test reports net KPH.
A practice routine
- Make sure Num Lock is on.
- Take the numeric keypad lessons: home keys first, then the top row, bottom row, zero and decimal point.
- Play Number Rush for quick, fun repetitions.
- Take a 3-minute 10-key test and note your net KPH. Repeat a few times a week.
No keypad on your laptop?
A USB numeric keypad is inexpensive and plugs in like a mouse. For a job test, ask whether a keypad will be available; practising on the number row is a different skill.