Data entry is the transcription of data from one form to another. Most modern businesses require some type of data entry, from financial numbers to email addresses, articles, and speech transcripts. Most types of data entry require the use of a computer and fairly simple software applications. Certifications and a number of other programs can equip you with the skills needed to start a career in data entry. However, the attitudes that determine your success in the data entry profession are patience, internal drive, and focus. You will learn how to perform data entry in this article.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Basic Data Entry Qualification
Step 1. Get a high school diploma or a package C pursuit diploma
You must be at least 16 years old and have completed a high school education or equivalent in order to be admitted to a data entry certification program or be accepted as a contract employee.
Step 2. Be proficient in English and math
To qualify, you must understand English text and basic math problems. Many data entry jobs require the ability to create formulas in a spreadsheet application. Take an English or basic maths course near you to complete this requirement.
Step 3. Have basic skills using a personal computer (PC)
Take courses on campuses that are open to the community, learning centers, or public libraries if you don't know how to use email, Microsoft Office, and especially spreadsheet applications.
Step 4. Take a typing course
Many data entry jobs charge by the hour or by the project, so the speed at which you type determines how much money you make. Take typing lessons online or at a tutoring agency to improve your words per minute (KPM).
Method 2 of 2: Data Entry Course
Step 1. Enter a data entry contract application that has an on-the-job training program
As a first job in the data entry profession, there are likely to be employers willing to provide several months of training to use certain software. These types of jobs are often low-paying, so it's a good idea to include other certificates in addition to on-the-job training.
Step 2. Submit an application for a data entry certificate or related diploma program
Do online research on programs that range from 1-field certificates to related courses taken in 2 years. Look for some of the following courses to include in your program.
- Data processing course. To complete this course, you must be able to type at least 25 words per minute. You'll learn how to type and format for maximum styling and efficiency.
- Microsoft courses. Course participants must learn how to work with all the basic aspects of Windows systems, including Word, Excel, Access, and even PowerPoint.
- Bookkeeping course. This course trains participants to monitor basic financial data and formulas in spreadsheets. You will be taught computing and organized tracking.
- Computer computing course. A course like this teaches advanced calculations with computers and software, which can be used with a variety of software programs. After basic math, this course will give you the mathematical knowledge needed to work in the data entry field.
Step 3. Submit an application for a related course in a specialized health or law data entry field
These two industries have special languages, terms and needs. Many health and legal data entry jobs require appropriate qualifications or experience.
- Advanced health data entry is called medical billing and medical code writing. This requires a certain academic degree and can significantly increase your prospects and payoff opportunities. Health bill and code writers study the information needed to submit health procedures to insurance companies.
- Legal data entry is valuable work for this growing legal profession. You will be called upon to transcribe complex legal documents at home or at work. Obtain the appropriate degree to qualify for legal data entry.
Step 4. Gain experience from doing various data entry jobs
To be able to work from home or earn a bigger salary, you must have an accurate and fast work history. If you have the basic qualifications to work in data entry, work experience will be helpful enough to learn other required skills.
