This program is a typing tutor appropriate for all ages and skill levels. It comes with a modest size user's manual that provides a good overview of the program's features but isn't needed to perform the lessons. These are accompanied by audio and graphic guidance which generally are adequate to be able to advance through the typing lessons and testing. Yes, you will be tested ! The program will run on Windows 98, ME, 2000 or XP. It requires 15 MB of hard drive space if you run the program from the CD or 435 MB for a full installation. I found the latter more satisfactory especially during initial assessment of the program's many features due to the need for frequent data access. (The reason for its large file sizes is the large graphic, audio and video content - which I think makes it superb.) The screen graphics and fonts may be changed to suit and music can be played in the background. There are 80 songs of many types available on the disk and you can add your own. Personally, I found music to be distracting while taking the lessons, but it might be nice if/when I become more proficient.

Typing basics are provided, if needed, which include posture, strategy and exercise information. An initial choice is made to learn the main keyboard or the numeric keypad. Lessons begin by selecting your starting skill level or running a 'skill test' to define it. My touch typing originated in Jr. High School, so a low level beginning was appropriate and supported by the test. I have a split keyboard and was pleased to find this program provides a graphic option for this in addition to the standard flat keyboard. A series of lessons is provided that advance the typist from the basic learning of key location and techniques to increased typing speed and accuracy. Values for these two parameters are indicated during each lesson and summarized when the lesson is completed. Lessons can be varied or repeated and up to 40 additional lessons can be downloaded from the Internet to develop specific skills. A variety of tests are to be taken between lessons to evaluate the level of skill learned and to review your progress. An additional 15 tests can be downloaded also.

To add interest and typing practice, eight animated games and a "Magazine Rack" are included in the program. I'm not a game person, but found them to add the fun and practice intended. This should be a big plus for many users. The magazine rack provides articles in eight disciplines (medicine, sports, history, legal.....) for practicing the vocabulary and styles common to each. Again, more articles can be downloaded.

Results of overall progress are summarized and can be assessed to identify areas of weakness. For example, problems typing with specific fingers are identified and the lessons listed that will provide help. A separate lesson profile and record can be setup for different typists. To finalize the undertaking, a Certificate of Achievement can be printed showing speed and accuracy scores. Technical support is available to registered users without a fee via phone, e-mail or fax. I haven't utilized this, but customer feedback was encouraged in the manual. The vendor's web site is: www.individualsoftware.com. Price for the program is about $30. I'm unable to make a comparison with competitive typing programs, but I think this one would be hard to beat.