Key Tools to Master for Remote Data Entry Jobs

Mastering the right data entry tools can land you remote work these days, even faster than a degree. Many remote data entry jobs do not strictly emphasise higher education qualifications. Rather, employers tend to be keener on candidates who are comfortable with specific data entry tools.

So, what are some key data entry tools you need to master for remote data entry jobs?

1. Typing & Accuracy Tools

Speed and accuracy are essential online data entry skills. Employers often test these abilities before hiring.

Typing practice platforms (e.g, Keybr and TypingClub) help you improve your typing speed and reduce errors. Regular practice can significantly increase your productivity and confidence.

Though the goal should be to type fast and correctly as well, it is better to prioritise accuracy over speed. Employers prefer someone who types slightly slower but makes fewer mistakes. 

Spell-check and grammar tools (e,g, Grammarly and ProWritingAid) are also important, especially for text-heavy tasks. These tools help catch mistakes that could lower your work quality.

Data entry errors can lead to financial loss, incorrect reports, or poor decision-making. However, you should not completely rely on spell-check and grammar tools. Manual editing and proofreading are also essential.

2. Basic Productivity Tools

Every work app can be considered a productivity tool, but the focus here is on those word and number processing tools that form the foundation of the majority of remote data entry work. These data entry tools help you enter, format, and organise information correctly.

Spreadsheets (e.g, Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets) are the most vital basic data entry tools to learn. They are used for entering numerical data, sorting records, creating tables, deriving formulas and performing basic calculations, among others. Such simple online data entry skills can make you more employable.

Word processors (e.g, Microsoft Word and Google Docs) are also commonly used, especially for text-based data entry. They are useful in a variety of ways, including typing words, copying information from scanned documents, and formatting text professionally.

Most remote employers expect applicants to have at least a basic understanding of either Microsoft Office or Google Workspace productivity tools before hiring.

3. Data Storage & Management Tools

Many companies rely on cloud-based platforms to store and manage data. These platforms help teams work remotely without losing files or making duplicate entries.

Online forms and databases  (e.g, Google Forms and Microsoft Forms) are commonly used for collecting and entering survey or customer data. Data entry workers may be required to review responses, correct errors, and transfer information into spreadsheets.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools (e.g, HubSpot and Zoho CRM) may also be used in entry-level roles. While you may not manage full CRM systems yet, your employer can task you to update stored records, enter customer details, or verify information accurately.

Some of these kinds of data entry tools are industry-specific (e.g, inventory systems or internal company dashboards). The key skill here is adaptability. If you understand basic data structures, learning new data storage and management platforms becomes much easier.

4. Time Tracking & Task Management Tools

Many remote employers want to know how long tasks take and whether deadlines are met. Knowing how to follow schedules and submit work on time can set you apart from other applicants. This is where time tracking and task management tools come in.

Time tracking tools (e.g, Hubstaff and Clockify) record how many hours you spend on specific tasks. These are commonly used for hourly-paid remote data entry jobs.

Task management tools (e.g, Trello and ClickUp) help you organise daily assignments, track progress, and meet deadlines. You'll find them very useful when working with multiple clients or large datasets.

5. File Sharing & Messaging Tools

Remote work depends heavily on communication, including secure file sharing and messaging.

You may be asked to submit completed spreadsheets, documents, or reports through shared folders. Cloud storage tools (e.g, Google Drive and Dropbox) enable you to upload, download, and share files safely. 

Messaging tools (e.g, Gmail and WhatsApp) are used to receive instructions, ask questions, and submit updates. Being responsive builds trust with employers and increases your chances of long-term work.

How To Start Learning These Tools

Most data entry tools are easy to learn, and many are free.

Spreadsheets are widely used in remote data entry jobs. So start with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, then gradually explore other tools as you gain confidence. 

YouTube tutorials, HR websites, online courses, and practice projects are excellent learning resources for someone looking to acquire online data entry skills. You can also create mock data entry tasks for yourself,e.g, entering survey data or organising contact lists.

Practice consistency is key. Spending even 30 to 60 minutes daily building familiarity with these data entry tools can significantly improve your confidence and employability.

As your skills improve, you’ll feel more prepared to apply for remote data entry jobs.

Conclusion

Success in getting remote data entry jobs is not only about having a degree. It also involves mastering the right data entry tools. From typing and accuracy tools to file sharing and messaging platforms, they all play important roles in daily data entry work.

By learning and practising these (and other) data entry tools, you position yourself as a reliable applicant with the essential online data entry skills needed to attract remote data entry jobs available on platforms like Remote4Africa.