Data entry is the act of transcribing some form of data into another form, usually a computer program. Forms of data that people might transcribe include handwritten documents, information off spreadsheets from another computer program, sequences of numbers, letters and symbols that build a program, or simple data like names and addresses. Some people perform jobs that are exclusively data entry, while others, like programmers, might have to occasionally enter data.

Since the advent of computers, and since the beginning of typing, the need to collect and neatly present documents has required data entry. Good typists, especially those who are also excellent at 10-key typing often are the most qualified for data entry positions. On the other hand, many computer programmers are not terrific typists but still plow their way through inputting code into programs when needed.

People who work exclusively in the field of data entry are likely to be quick typists, able to read off longhand or typewritten documents, and must be accurate. In programming, the wrong letter, number or symbol can throw off an entire command function of a program. For spreadsheets or for documentation that will be published or printed, typos can result in misinformation or embarrassing errors.

Data entry requires focus and concentration, and some find the work exhausting and even challenging to the body. For any person who types all day, paying attention to maintaining good posture, typing in an ergonomically sound position, and taking breaks for the eyes and hands are all important. Most experts in workplace ergonomics suggest that people entering long streams of data should take a break at least once an hour by moving away from the computer screen. Hand exercises and stretching exercises for the body may also help prevent typing related injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.

With a number of information systems requiring a constant stream of data, data entry doesn’t necessarily have to take place in an office or workplace. Many people work out of their homes entering data, transcribing medical information, or updating websites — especially websites that offer merchandise. You can find numerous telecommuting data entry jobs available which provide people with an excellent way to have a flexible schedule.

What should be avoided for anyone who wishes to enter the data entry field are “scam” offers, which promise data entry work if you pay a fee. Although there are many of these scams on the Internet, there are many legitimate data entry jobs available through reputable freelance sites that don’t require a fee. Typically, data entry jobs pay between 10-15 US dollars (USD) per hour. People with specialties like medical transcription, can make a little more than that.

In some cases, computers can perform data entry by scanning documents and converting information into different programs. It is predicted that this method and others may ultimately take over some data entry jobs. For example, voice software might eliminate the need for medical transcriptionists at some point. If you do plan to work in the field of data entry, it can help to diversify your skills and learn something about the field in which you’re working. For example, if you spend days entering code for websites, learning tools to program in HTML and Java might make you more employable in the future.