Exercise 1: The Finger Upper-Downer

This exercise trains each finger to become physically accustomed to the keys it is responsible for, as they are aligned vertically. Remember, "vertical" on a typing keyboard means up and down, with a slant up to the left. Occasionally, it might be useful to say the letter or number names of the keys out loud as you type them, to reinforce the connection through a different learning modality.

Always keep in mind this course's Principles of Effective Learning:

• No mistakes. Always be sure and in control. Follow the principle of 100% correct practice: to make a mistake is to learn incorrect things, and to confuse that which you already know.
• Slower is faster. Speed comes from certainty. The more you type things correctly, no matter how slow it has to be, the more certain you will be, and the faster you will become a proficient typist. Increase speed only when you feel sure enough to do so.
• Don't look at the keyboard! If you don't know where a key is, look at the keyboard to find it, then look away and type the key. Do not guess; always be sure.
• Relax. No unnecessary or dysfunctional tension!
• Hit the keys squarely in the center. If you find you aren't consistently doing so, SLOW DOWN!!! It should feel good to type!

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