How WPM is calculated
Typing tests count a “word” as five characters, including spaces, so long and short words even out.
Net WPM = Gross WPM − (uncorrected errors ÷ minutes)
Accuracy = correct characters ÷ characters typed × 100
Example: in a 1-minute test you type 200 characters with no mistakes: 200 ÷ 5 ÷ 1 = 40 WPM. If 10 of those characters were wrong and left uncorrected, net speed is 40 − 10 = 30 WPM. Fixing mistakes as you go costs a little time but protects your net score.
What's a good typing speed?
| Net WPM | Rough level |
|---|---|
| Under 25 | Beginner, often looking at the keys |
| 25–40 | Everyday typing; around 40 WPM is often cited as average |
| 40–60 | Comfortable and productive for office work |
| 60–80 | Fast; what many typing-heavy jobs look for |
| 80+ | Very fast |
These bands are rough guides, not official standards. Job tests set their own minimums and usually require a high accuracy (often 90% or more) as well.
How to type faster
- Accuracy first. Speed comes with practice; constant corrections slow you down more than typing a little slower.
- Touch typing. Rest your fingers on the home row (ASDF and JKL;) and use all ten. It's slower for a week or two, then much faster.
- Don't look down. Keep your eyes on the text, not the keyboard.
- Short, regular practice. Ten minutes a day beats an hour once a week. Try the 1-minute test daily and track your best score (saved in this browser).
- Posture. Sit straight, keep wrists relaxed and level, and take breaks.
Typing on a phone
The test works with phone keyboards too, including swipe typing. Phone speeds are usually lower than on a physical keyboard, so compare phone scores with phone scores. Autocorrect is switched off in the box so your real accuracy is measured.
Frequently asked questions
How is typing speed measured?
What is a good typing speed?
Is my result saved?
Why can't I paste text?
How long should the test be?
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