ITI Data Entry Operator Trade Syllabus 

The ITI "Data Entry Operator" trade is a one-year vocational training program under the Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS), governed by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT). This course equips trainees with skills in typing, data entry, computer applications, and basic office administration to handle digital data efficiently. The syllabus integrates theoretical knowledge, practical data processing skills, and employability training to prepare students for roles such as data entry operators, computer operators, or office assistants in government offices, private firms, or freelance opportunities.

Course Overview

  • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters, each 6 months)
  • NSQF Level: Level 4
  • Eligibility: Minimum 10th grade pass (or equivalent)
  • Objective: To train individuals in accurate and efficient data entry, computer operation, and office documentation using modern software tools.

Detailed Syllabus Breakdown 

1. Trade Theory (Theoretical Knowledge)

Covers foundational concepts in data entry and computer operations.

  • Semester 1
    • Introduction to Data Entry
      • Role and importance of a data entry operator.
      • Overview of data processing and its applications in offices.
      • Types of data: textual, numeric, alphanumeric.
    • Computer Fundamentals
      • Basics of computer hardware: CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse.
      • Introduction to operating systems: Windows, Linux basics.
      • File management: creating, saving, organizing files and folders.
    • Typing Skills
      • Keyboard layout: QWERTY, finger positioning.
      • Typing techniques: touch typing, speed, and accuracy.
      • Common typing errors and correction methods.
    • Office Software Basics
      • Introduction to MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
      • Word processing: formatting text, tables, page layout.
      • Spreadsheets: basic formulas, data sorting, filtering.
    • Safety and Ergonomics
      • Workplace safety: handling electrical devices, avoiding strain injuries.
      • Ergonomics: correct posture, keyboard and screen placement.
      • Data security: importance of passwords, backups.
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Data Entry Techniques
      • Handling large datasets: data validation, error checking.
      • Data entry from various sources: handwritten, scanned documents.
      • Speed enhancement: achieving 30-40 words per minute (WPM).
    • Office Automation Tools
      • Advanced MS Word: mail merge, templates, macros.
      • Advanced MS Excel: charts, pivot tables, basic functions (SUM, AVERAGE).
      • MS PowerPoint: creating presentations, slide transitions.
    • Internet and Email
      • Basics of internet: browsing, searching, downloading files.
      • Email management: composing, sending, attaching files.
      • Online data entry: cloud-based tools, Google Sheets.
    • Data Management
      • Database concepts: introduction to MS Access, tables, queries.
      • Data backup and recovery techniques.
      • Maintaining data confidentiality and integrity.
    • Professional Skills
      • Time management: meeting data entry deadlines.
      • Office administration: filing, record-keeping basics.
      • Customer interaction: handling data-related queries.

2. Trade Practical (Hands-On Skills)

Focuses on practical data entry and computer operation skills.

  • Semester 1
    • Typing Practice
      • Practicing alphabets, numbers, and symbols on the keyboard.
      • Typing simple sentences and paragraphs.
      • Speed tests: aiming for 20-25 WPM with accuracy.
    • Computer Operations
      • Setting up a computer: booting, shutting down, connecting peripherals.
      • File management: creating folders, renaming, moving files.
      • Installing and uninstalling basic software.
    • Office Software Practice
      • Creating documents in MS Word: letters, resumes, tables.
      • Entering data in MS Excel: simple lists, basic calculations.
      • Preparing basic slides in MS PowerPoint.
    • Data Entry Basics
      • Entering data from printed forms into digital formats.
      • Checking and correcting errors in entered data.
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Typing and Data Entry
      • Typing complex documents: reports, invoices, forms.
      • Entering data from handwritten or scanned documents.
      • Speed tests: achieving 30-40 WPM with minimal errors.
    • Advanced Software Skills
      • Using mail merge in MS Word for bulk letters.
      • Creating charts and pivot tables in MS Excel.
      • Designing presentations with animations in MS PowerPoint.
    • Internet and Email Practice
      • Browsing websites and downloading files.
      • Sending emails with attachments and managing inbox.
      • Entering data in online tools like Google Forms or Sheets.
    • Project Work
      • Entering and organizing a large dataset (e.g., employee records).
      • Preparing a report with charts and tables using MS Office tools.

3. Workshop Calculation and Science

Provides mathematical and scientific support for data entry tasks.

  • Semester 1
    • Basic arithmetic: calculations for typing speed (WPM), error rates.
    • Measurements: file sizes (KB, MB), data storage units.
    • Logic: organizing data in sequence or categories.
  • Semester 2
    • Data calculations: averages, totals in spreadsheets.
    • Time management: estimating task completion times.
    • Basics of binary system: understanding computer data storage.

4. Engineering Drawing

Limited applicability, but includes basic diagramming for office purposes.

  • Semester 1: Drawing layouts for data entry workstations.
  • Semester 2: Preparing flowcharts for data entry processes.

5. Employability Skills

Enhances job readiness and soft skills.

  • Semester 1
    • Communication skills: written and verbal interaction in English.
    • Time management: completing data entry tasks on time.
    • Basic IT skills: using office software effectively.
  • Semester 2
    • Entrepreneurship: starting a freelance data entry service.
    • Resume writing and interview preparation for office jobs.
    • Teamwork: collaborating on data entry projects.

Assessment and Certification

  • Examinations: Conducted semester-wise with theoretical and practical components.
  • Certification: Successful candidates receive the National Trade Certificate (NTC) from NCVT, recognized nationally and internationally.
  • Evaluation: Based on typing speed and accuracy, software proficiency, theoretical knowledge, and project work.

Career Opportunities

  • Employment: Data entry operator, computer operator, office assistant in government offices, banks, IT firms, or BPOs.
  • Self-Employment: Freelance data entry services, online transcription work.
  • Further Studies: Diploma in Computer Applications, Office Management, or advanced IT courses.

Note

  • This syllabus aligns with the latest NCVT guidelines and may vary slightly based on institutional or state-specific requirements.
  • For the most current version, refer to the Directorate General of Training (DGT) website (dgt.gov.in) or consult your local ITI.