Typists and word processors usually set up and enter reports, letters, mailing labels, and other text material. Typists make neat, typed copies of materials written by other clerical, professional, or managerial workers. They may begin as entry level workers by typing headings on form letters, addressing envelopes, or preparing standard forms on electric or electronic typewriters. As they gain experience, they may begin to do routine typing, such as insurance policies, or to type from handwritten drafts. More experienced typists do work that requires a higher degree of accuracy and independent judgment.
Senior typists work from rough drafts that are difficult to read or that contain technical material.
They may plan and type complicated statistical tables, combine and rearrange materials from different sources, or prepare master copies to be reproduced on photocopiers. Job titles of typists vary by duties performed and by work setting. For example, clerk typists combine typing with filing, sorting mail, answering telephones, and other general office work. Note-readers transcribe stenotyped notes of court proceedings into standard formats. In many organizations, word processing centers handle the transcription and typing for several departments.