As a data entry operator, you would be required to update, maintain and retrieve computerized information and transfer paper-based information on to the computer system.

While the work would differ across different organizations, most jobs would require you to enter both text and figures into spreadsheets or databases, using common software applications or more specialized systems. Your usual tasks would include the following:

• entering personal details of people (customers, clients, patients, students, teachers) depending on your organization
• entering classified advertisements in a newspaper
• transferring paper-based market research results
• updating patients' medical records
• processing sales invoices
• tracking students' test results in a school or college