Are Professional Programmers Fast Typists?

The question of whether professional programmers type very fast is a common one. While individual typing speeds can vary significantly, the true measure of efficiency in programming often lies elsewhere. This article explores the factors that influence typing speed among programmers and the importance of accuracy and design in the development process.

Factors Influencing Typing Speed

The ability to type quickly is not solely determined by one's specialization in computer science. Factors such as natural interest in computers, early exposure to typing, and the educational background of an individual play a role. For example, those who develop an early interest in computing might adopt efficient typing habits, whereas those who enter into the field later may take average typing skills.

Martin, a seasoned programmer, shares his personal typing speed of 85-90 words per minute, highlighting the variability in typing speeds among professionals. He mentions achieving a peak speed of 104 words per minute, which now stands at 115. Although some individuals can type faster, Martin notes that the relevance of speed diminishes if mistakes outnumber the correct keystrokes. A friend once remarked that while Martin can type quickly, the errors that result often take as much time to correct as the typing itself. Thus, speed without accuracy is of limited use.

The Role of Thought and Design in Programming

In the realm of programming, accuracy and thoughtfulness are often more critical than typing speed. According to Martin, most of our time is spent thinking about how to communicate with the computer, rather than typing. Every line of code should logically communicate the programmer's intent, not just be a quick keystroke.

Many experienced programmers, including Martin, have observed that typing speed among professional programmers rarely exceeds a few words per minute. Even those who can type swiftly at over 100 words per minute, such as typists who type from pre-read content, do not necessarily have the same level of proficiency when it comes to programming. These individuals can type quickly but lack the mental engagement required to write effective code.

Typing Habits of Programmers

Typing speed can vary widely among programmers. Some are naturally skilled touch typists, while others may adopt a more leisurely "hunt-and-peck" approach. Martin, for instance, is a long-time programmer who, despite years of experience, remains a hunt-and-peck typist. He believes that there is no significant advantage to being able to type faster than one can think. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of developing a good design, which is far more critical than speed in coding.

There are notable exceptions, however. Martin recalls a colleague who used only his index fingers to peck out code, achieving an unusually high typing speed. Initially, this phenomenon left Martin in awe. While the ability to type quickly is impressive, the primary objective in programming is to effectively communicate instructions to the computer. In the long run, typing speed can hinder productivity if it disrupts the logical flow of thought.

The Value of a Typing Class for Programmers

In light of these observations, Martin suggests that a typing class could be highly beneficial for programmers. Typing classes not only improve hand-eye coordination but also enhance typing speed and accuracy. They can help programmers develop efficient typing habits that align with the nature of the programming environment. While a high typing speed is not always necessary, knowledge of touch typing can contribute to a better coding experience.

Ultimately, while typing speed is a relevant skill to some extent, the most impactful factors in professional programming are accuracy, design, and logical thought processes. Whether you're a programmer who has undergone formal training or someone who is new to the field, mastering the fundamentals can significantly improve your coding capabilities.

Conclusion

The answer to whether professional programmers type really fast is complex. While speed can be a useful tool, it is far from the primary determinant of success in programming. What matters most is the ability to accurately and logically communicate with the computer, turning ideas into functional code.