Hunt-and-Peck
Definition
Hunt-and-peck is a typing method where the typist searches visually for each key and presses it, typically using two to four fingers. It is the natural typing method for people who have never learned touch typing. Speed typically plateaus at 30–45 WPM with this method.
Why It Matters
Understanding hunt-and-peck helps explain the motivation for learning touch typing. The key limitation is cognitive: when your visual attention is split between the keys and the screen, your thinking speed and your typing speed cannot be aligned.
Example
A hunt-and-peck typist looks for the letter "q", presses it with their right index finger, then looks for the next letter, and so on.
Related Terms
Put it into practice
Now you understand Hunt-and-Peck — take a typing speed test to see where you actually stand.