The Typewriter

A typewriter is a writing machine that was used before computers. It has a keyboard with letters, numbers, and symbols. When you press a key, a small metal piece strikes a ribbon and prints a letter on paper. Typewriters helped people write books, letters, and office papers much faster than by hand.

How It Works

Each key on a typewriter is linked to a metal arm with a letter on the end. When you press a key, the arm swings up. It hits an inked ribbon and stamps the letter onto the paper. The paper slides over one space so you can type the next letter.

An old wooden typewriter with lots of round keys.
An old wooden typewriter with lots of round keys. (Reinraum / Wikimedia Commons)

From Typewriters to Computers

The first good typewriter was made in 1868 by Christopher Sholes. He also made the QWERTY keyboard that we still use today on computers and phones. Typewriters were used in offices all over the world. Later, computers and printers took their place.

Fun Facts

  • The QWERTY keyboard is named after the first six letters on the top row.
  • Some famous writers still use typewriters because they like the sound.
  • Electric typewriters were invented in the early 1900s.

Did You Know?

The QWERTY keyboard was made to slow typists down so the keys would not get stuck together.