Doesn't this really fall under the category of "computer skills"? It's the same answer (atleast from me). Most jobs require some basic knowledge, so you might as well acquaint yourself just in case.

Very much so, and becoming a skill that more and more clerical employers are demanding (some places can get away with lots of "drag and drop", but it still impresses to be able to shoot out a letter in nothing flat). My fate was sealed in high school (where I took two hellish years of typing): I couldn't keep from looking at the keyboard while typing, and my grades suffered for it ("C+" both years). However, the instructor was baffled at how many words I could type using the method I adapted (one left index finger, one right middle finger, right thumb to "space"); to this day, I coax sixty words a minute from this unorthodox style (not enough to get me into a secretarial pool, but quick enough to get most jobs done). Comes in handy (get it?) most anywhere--even stock traders are in need of hasty mitts once in awhile.

Though its necessity varies on where you live and what your job entails, typing generally helps you focus on whatever it is you're writing. Not to mention the time saved when you don't have to hunt for every letter on the key board.

essential for things such as I am now.

Depends on where you are; in America, yes, it's very important. Sure, you can get by without it. But, it's one of those "basic job skills" that most employers kind of assume that you should have. I remember going to a job interview several years ago where a typing test was administered. The interviewer came back, impressed at my typing abilities ( . . . that's several years of instant-messaging and being on the internet for you). And he said, with a big smile on his face while making little up-and-down motions with his forefingers pointing downward on a make-believe keyboard: "I wish I can type with all my fingers . . . I'm just a BIG pecker . . ." . . . It took all of my discipline not to smirk at his inadvertant joke. I didn't take the job.

Now wee see why numbah's comments are usually brief.

Grr.