I have a ceiling fan that is too high to get too easily to adjust the speeds. It has three speeds with a pull chain. I was told by an electrician to install a variable speed switch (something like used for a light), in place of the fan on/off switch. We have two switches for the ceiling fan, one for the light and one for the fan on and off. He said to adjust the speed to high on the fan then adjust the speed with the newly installed variable speed switch at the on/off switch. Is that OK to do? Is there a special variable speed switch, I should ask for? Or, Should I just leave it a well enough alone?

Sounds fine.
Just be sure it is for fans, not a light dimmer.

Leave the fan pullchain on high, buy a 3 speed wall control. Problem solved.

Ceiling fan remote controls - help and FAQ- Ceiling Fans N More (http://www.ceiling-fans-n-more.com/ceiling-fan-controls.php)