P.S. I have been visiting this message board for most of the last month and I just want to say that the friendliness and support that most of you offer is wonderful! Your posts have only encouraged my dedication to becoming part of the MT field. Thanks!

I am a fast typist - 100+ wpm - and I will say that my typing speed has saved my *** many times on new jobs where other factors like learning new words and new programs have kept me from being very productive for a while.

I remember taking typing in high school. As far as learning the skill of typing -- I have four rules.

1) Practice a lot.
2) Don't cheat - learn to type the correct
way....
3) Learn your numbers...as well as letters.
4) Practice rhythm - not speed.
5) Practice accuracy (rhythm helps this)

This are the rules that I adhered to that helped me to become a fast and accurate typist.

I really don't know how fast you need to type to be a medical transcriptionist -- but, I certainly would think a minimum of
60 wpm would be necessary. (I don't need to mention that the faster you can type - the more work you can get done.)

A good medical transcriptionist must possess many skills. And I'm sure the other girls can add many more.

1) Typing skills
2) A good understanding of medical
terminology, drugs, etc.
3) Spelling skills
4) A good understanding of grammar and
punctuation.
5) Patience and the desire to work hard
and continue learning.

Good luck! - I have enjoyed working as a medical transcriptionist. It is a rewarding profession.
4)

You have asked a VERY good question! When I started my vocational training at the hospital that I currently work for, I was amazed at how FAST the MT's were typing!!

This is very very important - you don't have to know how to type fast!!! The only thing that matters is quality, quality, quality. The first few months of my training, my face was in the Dorland's Medical Dictionary constantly. You have to know what you are typing before you can acquire speed. Speed will come with time. I hope this helps!!!

Good luck - if you have a curious mind, you will love MT. I have been transcribing well over twenty-five years, and still learn something every day. I love it. Bonnie

Since grammar is so important in this career, may I mention that "....simply creating a confusing sentence that needs fixed" is not correct. It should read "needs to be fixed". I thought about not posting so as not to seem picky, but then again, being picky is what we get paid to do as transcriptionists!

I do, however, think you make an excellent and absolutely true point!!!

Kelly :-D