Earn Money Online by Typing: The Complete Guide to Making Money from Home Through Keyboard Skills
With our increasingly digitalized world, making money online by typing is now one of the most flexible and simplest ways to make money at home. For parents at home, students, people recovering from injury, or simply those wanting extra income, online typing jobs offer endless possibilities. This step-by-step tutorial will uncover exactly how to earn money online by typing, from opportunities for beginners to advanced ones that can lead to considerable income.
Why Online Typing Work Is Best for You
Accessibility and Low Barrier to Entry
One of the greatest advantages of earning money online by typing is how accessible it is. All you require is a laptop or computer, an internet connection, and elementary typing skills. Unlike much online work which calls for specialized hardware or extensive technical knowledge, typing work can be started immediately with minimal investment.
Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
Typing-based online typing work offers unprecedented flexibility. Work wherever you want – at home, in a coffee shop, or even while on the road. Set your own schedule, work when you're most efficient, and balance online typing income with the rest of your life, including family, school, or a second job.
No Specialized Skills Required (In the Start)
Most typing positions don't require high-level degrees or technical skills. Whether you're a recent graduate, career changer, or simply looking for extra revenue, there are typing positions suitable for all skill levels.
Getting Started: The Basics Requirements
Equipment You'll Need
Computer or Laptop:
A good computer with internet is essential. The majority of typing tasks can be done on regular computers purchased for a few hundred dollars.
Internet Connection:
Stable internet connection is required for online typing work. Cable, DSL, or fiber optic are ideal.
Typing Software:
General software like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or simple text editors can be utilized for the majority of work.
Communication Tools:
Email ids and messaging software like Skype or Slack for communication with employers or clients.
Enhancing Your Typing Skills
Typing Speed:
You don't need to be a professional typist, but the quicker you are, the more you can earn. Aim for at least 40 words per minute (WPM) to start, and 60+ WPM for higher-paying work.
Accuracy:
Speed is useless without accuracy. Practice building speed and accuracy simultaneously.
Free Typing Resources:
TypingClub.com
Keybr.com
Nitrotype.com
10FastFingers.com
Entry-Level Typing Jobs for Beginners
Online Surveys and Microtasks
What It Is:
Complete minor tasks like surveys, data entry, or small assignments for small payments.
Platforms to Consider:
Swagbucks: Offers surveys, video watching, and shopping rewards
Survey Junkie: Paid surveys only
UserTesting: Get paid for testing websites and apps
Amazon Mechanical Turk: Variety of microtasks and small jobs
Clickworker: Microtasking site with typing work
Earning Potential:
Typically $5-20 an hour, depending on the platform and task difficulty level.
Pros:
No experience required
Can start immediately
Flexible schedule
Cons:
Low payment per task
High competition
Not sustainable as primary income
Data Entry Jobs
What It Is:
Typing information from various sources into databases or spreadsheets.
Types of Data Entry:
Basic Data Entry: Simple typing of information
Transcription: Listening to audio and typing what is spoken
Invoice Processing: Typing invoice information
Customer Database Management: Typing customer information updates
Where to Find Data Entry Jobs:
Upwork: Freelance platform with many data entry jobs
Freelancer.com: Global freelancing platform
Fiverr: Gig-based platform
Clickworker: Microtasking platform that offers data entry
Rev: Transcription and captioning platform
Earning Potential:
$10-25 per hour for beginners, up to $30+ per hour with experience.
Tips for Success:
Prioritize accuracy over speed in the beginning
Learn basic Excel functions
Cultivate attention to detail
Create a portfolio of finished projects
Online Transcription Services
What It Is:
Transcribing audio and video recordings into written text documents.
Types of Transcription:
General Transcription: Interviews, meetings, lectures
Legal Transcription: Court hearings, depositions
Medical Transcription: Doctor's notes, medical reports
Captioning: Subtitling videos
Platforms and Companies:
Rev.com: Popular transcription platform
TranscribeMe: Audio transcription services
GoTranscript: General transcription services
Scribie: Audio and video transcription
CastingWords: Specialized transcription services
Requirements:
Good listening skills
Fast and accurate typing
Good English grammar and punctuation
Ability to work with different audio qualities
Earning Potential:
$15-25 per hour, with experienced transcribers earning $30+ per hour.
Virtual Assistance
What It Is:
Providing administrative services to entrepreneurs and businesses remotely.
Common Tasks:
Email response and management
Scheduling calendars
Data organization and entry
Social media posting
Customer service response
Basic bookkeeping entries
Where to Find Virtual Assistant Jobs:
Upwork: Large marketplace for VA work
Fiverr: Gig-oriented VA work
Belay: Premium virtual assistant company
Time Etc: Experienced VA company
Zirtual: High-end virtual assistant work
Skills Needed:
Organizational skills
Communication skills
Office software skills
Reliable internet
Professional email etiquette
Pay Range:
$15-35 per hour, with experienced VAs earning $40+ per hour.
Intermediate Typing Jobs
Content Writing and Copywriting
What It Is:
Creating text for websites, blogs, marketing materials, and other online content.
Types of Writing:
Blog Writing: Educational and informative articles
Website Content: Homepage copy, product descriptions
Email Newsletters: Marketing and communication content
Social Media Posts: Social media content
SEO Content: Search engine-optimized articles
Websites to Find Writing Work:
Upwork: In-depth writing job listings
Freelancer.com: Global writing marketplace
Contena: Premium writing job board
ProBlogger: Writing job listings
WriterAccess: Content creation platform
Skills Needed:
Good spelling and grammar skills
Understanding of different writing styles
Basic SEO knowledge
Being able to write to deadlines
Research skills
Paying Potential:
$20-50 an hour for beginners, up to $100+ an hour for experienced writers.
Online Tutoring and Teaching
What It Is:
Teaching subjects or skills to students through online platforms.
Popular Subjects:
English Language: Teaching grammar, writing, and communication
Academic Subjects: Math, science, history tutoring
Test Preparation: SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT preparation
Business Skills: Excel, PowerPoint, business writing
Platforms for Online Tutoring:
iTalki: Language teaching platform
Preply: Online tutoring marketplace
Chegg Tutors: Academic tutoring platform
Wyzant: Tutoring marketplace
Cambly: English conversation practice
Requirements:
Expertise in your chosen subject
Good communication skills
Reliable internet connection
Patience and ability to teach
Earning Potential:
$20-50 per hour, with experienced tutors earning $60+ per hour.
Customer Service and Chat Support
What It Is:
Customer service through email, chat, or phone from your own home.
Types of Support:
Email Support: Responding to customer inquiries
Live Chat: Real-time customer support
Social Media Management: Handling customer complaints and inquiries
Technical Support: Helping customers with products
Companies Hiring Remote Customer Service:
Amazon: Virtual customer service positions
Apple: Technical support roles
Salesforce: Customer success jobs
Zendesk: Customer support software
LiveWorld: Social media customer service
Skills Needed:
Effective written communication
Problem-solving ability
Patience and empathy
Product knowledge
Multitasking ability
Earning Potential:
$15-25 per hour, with experienced agents earning $25-35 per hour.
Specialized Typing Jobs
Technical Writing and Documentation
What It Is:
Creating technical documentation, user manuals, and instructional materials for complex products or services.
Types of Technical Writing:
User Manuals: Product instruction manuals
API Documentation: Developer documentation
White Papers: Technical research documents
Training Materials: Employee training manuals
Process Documentation: Internal procedure guides
Industries That Employ Technical Writers:
Software Companies: Application and platform documentation
Manufacturing: Safety information and product manuals
Healthcare: Medical device instructions
Finance: Regulatory and compliance documentation
Government: Public sector guides
Skills Required:
Strong technical understanding
Ability to simplify complex concepts
Good organizational skills
Attention to detail
Understanding of documentation software
Earning Potential:
$40-80 per hour for experienced technical writers.
Grant Writing and Proposal Development
What It Is:
Developing funding proposals and grant applications for organizations that require financial support.
Types of Grants:
Government Grants: Federal, state, and local grants
Foundation Grants: Private foundation grants
Corporate Sponsorships: Business partnership proposals
Non-Profit Funding: Charity and NGO grants
Skills Required:
Good research skills
Understanding of funding requirements
Persuasive writing skills
Understanding of different types of grants
Project management skills
Earning Potential:
$50-100+ per hour, with potential percentage of grants received.
Legal and Medical Transcription (Advanced)
What It Is:
Specialized transcription requiring industry-specific knowledge and terminology.
Legal Transcription:
Court proceedings
Depositions
Legal correspondence
Case notes
Medical Transcription:
Doctor's notes
Medical reports
Patient records
Research documentation
Requirements:
Industry-specific training and certification
Knowledge of specialized terminology
High accuracy standards
Understanding of privacy regulations
Specialized software proficiency
Earning Potential:
$25-45 per hour for certified professionals.
Building Your Typing-Based Online Business
Creating a Professional Online Presence
Personal Website:
Create a simple website showcasing your services, portfolio, and contact information. Platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace make this easy and affordable.
Professional Social Media Profiles:
Maintain professional profiles on LinkedIn, Twitter, and industry-specific platforms. Share relevant content and engage with your target audience.
Portfolio Development:
Develop samples of your finest work to present to potential clients. Even unpaid work may be added to your portfolio.
Marketing Your Typing Services
Networking:
Become a member of online groups, forums, and social media platforms in your niche. Participate naturally and provide value prior to marketing your services.
Content Marketing:
Produce blog posts, videos, or social media content that showcases your skills and draws in prospective clients.
Client Referrals:
Encourage satisfied clients to refer you to others. Offer incentives for successful referrals.
Online Marketplaces:
Maintain active profiles on multiple freelancing websites to receive maximum visibility and opportunities.
Scaling Your Typing Income
Specialization:
Specialize in some niches where you can demand higher prices and become known as an expert.
Automation:
Use tools and templates to automate repetitive tasks and become more efficient.
Outsourcing:
As you grow, outsource some of the tasks to other freelancers while you focus on high-value work.
Product Creation:
Develop digital products like templates, courses, or guides that can generate passive income.
Tools and Software to Enhance Efficiency
Essential Productivity Tools
Project Management:
Trello: Simple task management
Asana: In-depth project tracking
Monday.com: Collaboration software for teams
Time Tracking:
Toggl: Simple time tracking
RescueTime: Automatic time tracking
Clockify: Time tracking tool for free
Communication:
Slack: Team communication
Zoom: Video calling tool
Skype: Voice and video calling
Specialized Typing Software
Transcription Tools:
Express Scribe: Audio transcription software
Otter.ai: AI-powered transcription service
Rev.com: Professional transcription service
Writing and Editing:
Grammarly: Grammar and spell checker
Hemingway Editor: Writing style improvement
ProWritingAid: Detailed writing analysis
Data Entry and Organization:
Excel/Google Sheets: Spreadsheet management
Airtable: Database and project management
Notion: All-in-one workplace
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Building Credibility as a New Typist
Start with Free or Low-Paid Jobs:
Build portfolio and receive testimonials from first clients to establish credibility.
Obtain Relevant Certifications:
Invest in courses or certifications that indicate your expertise and commitment.
Practice Professional Communication:
Be always professional in communication and deliver timely to achieve a good reputation.
Handling Low-Paying Clients
Set Minimum Rates:
Have clear minimum rates and stick to them.
Emphasize Value:
Focus on the value you provide rather than mere price competition.
Target Quality Clients:
Find clients who value quality work and are willing to pay good rates.
Managing Time Properly
Make a Schedule:
Formulate standard working hours to maintain productivity and work-life balance.
Avoid Distractions:
Make a dedicated workplace where you can work without any distractions.
Use Time Management Techniques:
Employ techniques like the Pomodoro Technique or time blocking to deliver peak productivity.
Handling Difficult Clients
Set Clear Expectations:
Establish clear project scope, timelines, and payment terms right at the outset.
Communicate Professionally:
Address problems in a calm and professional way through written communication.
Know When to Walk Away:
Recognize when a client relationship is no longer worth pursuing and cut losses to pave the way for more promising prospects.
Legal and Financial Considerations
Tax Obligations for Online Typists
Income Reporting:
Keep clear records of all income earned for typing jobs.
Business Expenses:
Track deductible expenses like computer equipment, software, and internet costs.
Self-Employment Taxes:
Understand your obligations for self-employment taxes and quarterly payments.
Professional Advice:
Consider consulting with a tax professional familiar with freelance income.
Contracts and Legal Protection
Use Contracts:
Always use written contracts for client work to protect both parties.
Define Scope of Work:
Clearly outline what is and isn't included in your services.
Payment Terms:
Specify payment amounts, due dates, and late payment penalties.
Intellectual Property:
Be aware of who owns rights to the work you do.
Future Trends in Online Typing-Based Jobs
Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence
AI-Enabled Writing:
AI writing tools like ChatGPT are changing content creation, but human oversight remains necessary.
Automatic Transcription:
AI transcription software is improving, but human editors are still required for accuracy and context.
Intelligent Data Entry:
AI is automating some data entry, but complex data still requires human labor.
Development of Remote Work
Global Competition:
The shift to remote work has increased global competition for typing jobs.
Higher Standards:
Clients require more quality and faster turnaround times.
Specialized Niches:
Jobs are increasing in specialized niches requiring industry expertise.
Emerging Opportunities
Voice-to-Text Services:
More demand for voice recognition and transcription services.
Multilingual Content:
More demand for translation and localization services.
Accessibility Services:
More demand for services assisting people with disabilities.
Getting Started Action Plan
Week 1: Assessment and Preparation
Evaluate Your Current Skills:
Test your typing speed and accuracy
Identify your strongest areas and List relevant experience and education
Set Up Your Workspace:
Create a dedicated work area
Ensure reliable internet connection
Organize necessary equipment and software
Research Opportunities:
Explore different typing job categories
Identify platforms that match your skills
Set realistic income goals
Week 2: Skill Development and Profile Creation
Improve Your Typing:
Practice daily using online typing tutors
Focus on both speed and accuracy
Track your progress
Create Professional Profiles:
Set up accounts on major freelancing platforms
Write compelling profile descriptions
Upload portfolio samples
Learn Key Tools:
Familiarize yourself with project management tools
Learn basic formatting for documents and spreadsheets
Research industry-specific tools
Week 3: Entering the Market and First Applications
Apply for Entry Positions:
Start with entry-level positions at your skill level
Customize applications to each vacancy
Professionally follow up on applications
Develop Your Portfolio:
Complete first projects with quality in mind
Receive feedback and testimonials
Continuously update your portfolio
Network and Learn:
Join relevant online communities
Network with other professionals in the industry
Continue learning through online resources
Week 4: Optimization and Growth
Analyze Your Results:
See which applications were successful
Identify areas for improvement
Adjust your strategy according to feedback
Refine Your Strategy:
Prioritize the most profitable opportunities
Strengthen your application materials
Acquire new skills according to market demand
Plan for Growth:
Set income and skill development targets
Seek specialization opportunities
Formulate a plan for growth of your typing business
Success Stories: Real People Making Money Online by Typing
Sarah's Journey from Stay-at-Home Mom to Six-Figure Earner
Sarah, a mother of two in Ohio, started transcribing audio files for $15 an hour while her children napped. Within two years, she was employing five virtual assistants and earning over $100,000 a year providing a variety of typing-based services like content writing, customer service, and project management.
David's Transition from Corporate to Freelance Writing
David lost his job in marketing as a result of the pandemic. He utilized his writing skills to start a freelance content writing business, with an initial rate of $25 an hour. He now gets $150 an hour and provides niche B2B content. He has clients on three major continents.
Maria's Success in Medical Transcription
Maria, a medical office administrator, switched to medical transcription after she moved to a rural area where jobs were scarce. She invested in specialized training and now earns $40 an hour with flexible scheduling to accommodate her family.
