Touch type as defined by wordnet.com is to type without looking at the keyboard. Most transcriptionist employ this method of transcribing ... except me.
Being in the transcription world for less than 10 years, I'm not that keen on this method. No offense meant on people using this technique but I just type as I please; in my head, type as you please, master your own method period. I have seen people applying the touch typing thing but it's not always the speed that counts. Many times, they hit the backspace button more often than I do, even worse, create more mistakes than me.
In my opinion, follow what suits you best or what makes your boat float. Just like photography, learn the basics and then formulate, experiment and create your own style.
There's no rule on what to follow in the way you transcribe, what matters is to be sure that you are writing down the accurate words dictated, no more and no less. Just like everybody else, find what's comfortable with you.
Happy transcribing!
