There are currently three types of Chinese input methods:  keyboard input, handwriting system, and voice recognition.

    Keyboard input is the most developed method and most widely used.   For a trained expert, wpm can reach 200.  But for the general public, 60 wpm is an impressive speed.  The main reasons why keyboard input method is widely practiced are convenience, availability of software, and speed.  The keyboard is a standardized device for every computer, and therefore, every computer owner has access to it.  Secondly, the software that is necessary for inputting is part of the Windows package.  Moreover, compared to other input methods, keyboard input is the fastest.

    The handwriting method has bloomed in recent years.  This is the simplest of all three methods.  Special equipment are required (usually a specially designed pen and a writing board).  Once the users get pass the initial period of getting used to the equipment, it is almost the same as writing with ordinary pen and paper.  One add-on benefit to this method is the users can use it in place of mouse, which makes it easier to draw on the computer.  But the disadvantage of this method is it is slower compared to other methods.  The average wpm is 20 to 30.

    Voice recognition is newer in this industry.  Its' average speed is 20 to 30 wpm.  Since it's still a pretty new method, there are a lot of areas undeveloped.  Once the error rate has been reduced to an acceptable level, it should surpass all other methods.  Its' function will not only be limited to inputting, but it can also be used to control the computer.

Last modified 11/25/98.