PTE Manila Hacks: How to Become a Better Typist

Did you know that your typing abilities can affect your PTE performance? It’s because PTE is a computerized language exam. All the components, from the listening to the speaking tests, are conducted via computer.

Not a lot of test takers are aware of this when they prepare for the exam. They enroll in excellent review centers like the JRooz PTE Manila and engage in intensive self-study sessions only to fall short of reaching the highest score they could achieve due to their inadequate typing skills. Don’t be one of them.

Improve your typing skills for the PTE exam. Here are three of the most effective ways to be a better typist.

1. Practice with the right keyboard
   Yes, you read that right. Practice with the right keyboard. Keyboards have a lot of variations. Layout-wise, there’s the AZERTY, the QWERTZ, the DVORAK, the Colemak, and, of course, the standard QWERTY. Model-wise, there’s the membrane keyboard, the direct switch keyboard, the scissor switch keyboard, and more.
   
   The QWERTY keyboard is the one used in the PTE exam. Practice with a QWERTY keyboard model that you’re comfortable with. Consider the size of the keys. It’s easier to type with big keys. You can also try ergonomic keyboards. They’re slightly broader than the standard model and have a portion where you can rest your wrists. Use ones that have prominent tactile feedback.

Keep everything you research organized. Then, save a pdf copy of it on your mobile phone or print them out.


2. Develop your touch-typing skills
   Touch-typing is the ability to type without looking at the keyboard. Develop your touch-typing skills as you attend your classes at the PTE review center in Manila to enhance your performance in the writing exam.
   
   Always assume the correct finger position when practicing touch-typing. The fingers of your left hand, from the pinky to the thumb, should be placed on the following keys: A, S, D, F and space bar. Meanwhile, the fingers of your right hand, from the pinky to the thumb, should be placed on the following keys: ;, L, K, J, and space bar.
   
   Here are other tips to hone your touch-typing skills:
   
   
   • Never look at the keyboard while you type. Focus on the screen.
   • Practice typing a single sentence over and over again. Ideally, the sentence should contain all the letters of the alphabet. Here are some sample pangrams that you can use.
   • “The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog.”
   • “Sphinx of black quartz, judge my vow.”
   • “Pack my box with five dozen liquor jugs.”
   • “Crazy Fredrick bought many very exquisite opal jewels.”
   • “How razorback-jumping frogs can level six piqued gymnasts.”
   
   Change your practice pangram once you've mastered typing it without looking. The variety will improve your dexterity, precision, and flexibility
   
   
   • Have someone check if you’re using the correct finger to press the keys.
   • Always keep your fingers and hand close to the base position. Limit your movements to only what is necessary.
   • Take your time. Don’t worry about speed and concentrate on avoiding mistakes.

A great way to make sure your index fingers are resting on the right keys is to pay attention to the key texture. Most keyboards have an indent mark on the “F” and “J” keys. Look for these raised marks on the keyboard you use during your PTE Manila classes.


3. Assume the correct posture for typing
   Sit up and keep your back straight. There should be a distance of at least 45 cm between the screen and your eyes. Rest your wrists on the desktop and use a chair with armrests. Make sure there’s minimal strain or pressure on your wrist, arm, and shoulder muscles. Excellent training facilities, like the PTE review center in Manila, often implement these guidelines

Looking for a training facility that can help you hone typing skills for the PTE exam? Consider enrolling in one JRooz’s PTE review centers. Click here to learn more about their branches and programs.

References:

• “6 Non-QWERTY Keyboard Layouts.” Mental Floss. August 30, 2013. Accessed March 12, 2018. http://mentalfloss.com/article/52483/6-non-qwerty-keyboard-layouts
• "How to Type Faster: Typing Tips and Instructions." Typing test. Accessed March 09, 2018. https://www.keyhero.com/wpm-typing-tips/
• "Learn How to Touch Type." Ratatype. Accessed March 09, 2018. https://www.ratatype.com/learn/.
• Negroni, Jon. "5 Ways to Boost Typing Speed and Accuracy." Lifehack. October 09, 2013. Accessed March 09, 2018. https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/5-ways-boost-typing-speed-and-accuracy.html.
• “Some Well-Known Pangram.” Fun With Words. Accessed March 12, 2018. http://www.fun-with-words.com/pang_example.html.
• Turner, Amy-Mae. "5 Free Ways to Improve Your Typing Skills Online." Mashable. October 07, 2010. Accessed March 09, 2018. https://mashable.com/2010/10/07/improve-typing-speed/#HJbS2om_uSqO.
• “Types of Keyboard Hardware &Technologies for Windows PC.” The Windows Club. Accessed March 12, 2018. http://www.thewindowsclub.com/types-keyboard-hardware-technologies-windows-pc
• WikiHow. "How to Improve Typing Speed." WikiHow. November 16, 2017. Accessed March 09, 2018. https://www.wikihow.com/Improve-Typing-Speed.