How to Increase WPM for Coding

Many developers believe that typing speed doesn't matter because "coding is 90% thinking and 10% typing." While true that logic is king, slow typing creates friction between your brain and the editor. Here is how to boost your WPM specifically for programming.

1. Master Touch Typing (Don't Look Down!)

It sounds obvious, but many seniors still hunt and peck. Learning to touch type allows you to keep your eyes on the code, catching syntax errors the moment they happen.

Action Step: Force yourself to not look at the keyboard for 1 week. It will be painful, but the payoff is immense.

2. Learn Your IDE Shortcuts

Speed isn't just raw typing; it's navigation. If you're using the mouse to switch files or highlight text, you're losing time.

• Navigation: Learn Ctrl+P (VS Code) to jump to files instantly.
• Editing: Use Alt+Arrows to move lines up/down.
• Selection: Ctrl+D to select next occurrence is a game changer for refactoring.

3. Practice Special Characters

Standard typing tests focus on prose (sentences). Coding is full of { } [ ] ( ) ; : => !. Most people slow down significantly when hitting these symbols.

Use tools like iTypeBlitz or specialized coding tests to practice these specific reach keys until they are muscle memory.

4. Accuracy > Speed

In coding, a typo isn't just a red squiggly line; it's a potential bug or a failed build. Focus on 98%+ accuracy. Backspacing is the biggest killer of coding flow.

Conclusion

Investing time in your typing skills pays dividends for your entire career. Start with just 10 minutes a day of focused practice.