What is the average typing speed, and how do you measure yours?
A typing speed is only useful if you know how it was measured. The same person can score very differently depending on the text, the time limit and the way mistakes are counted. This guide shows how to get a reliable number with the tool above and how to read it.
How to use the tool, step by step
- Sit the way you normally do when you work. Keep your wrists relaxed and the screen at eye level.
- Start the test and read the first few words before you type. Do not rush the first line.
- Type the text as it appears. Fix a mistake only if you notice it right away.
- Finish the test without stopping to look at your hands.
- Note two results: your speed in WPM and your accuracy in percent.
- Repeat the test three times and keep the average of the three results. One run alone can be too high or too low.
A worked example
WPM counts a "word" as 5 characters, spaces included. Say you type 300 characters in 1 minute with 4 uncorrected errors.
- Gross speed: 300 ÷ 5 = 60 words in 1 minute, so 60 WPM.
- Net speed: 60 − 4 = 56 WPM.
Now suppose your three runs give 52, 56 and 54 WPM. The sum is 162, and 162 ÷ 3 = 54. Your typing speed is about 54 WPM. Compare this figure with the table on this page, not a single best run.
Practical tips and uses
- Compare like with like. A test with punctuation and capital letters gives a lower score than a test with plain lowercase words.
- Accuracy comes first. Correcting errors costs time. Slow down a little until your accuracy is stable, then raise your speed.
- Job applications. Some employers ask for a minimum WPM. Test yourself a few days before, so you know where you stand.
- Students and learners. Test once a week and write the result down. Short daily practice of 10 to 15 minutes is easier to keep up than one long session.
- Other languages. Languages with accents or different scripts, such as Japanese, use other counting methods. A score from one language does not transfer directly to another.
- Keyboard and device. A laptop, a desktop keyboard and a phone give different results. Always test on the device you use most.
FAQ
What is the difference between WPM and CPM?
CPM means characters per minute. To convert it to WPM, divide by 5. For example, 350 CPM equals 350 ÷ 5 = 70 WPM.
Why is my score lower on some tests than others?
Text difficulty changes the result. Long words, numbers, symbols and capital letters all slow most people down. Your mood, tiredness and keyboard also play a part.
Does my speed matter if I make few mistakes?
Both matter. A high WPM with many errors means extra time spent correcting. A steady, accurate speed is usually more useful in daily work than a fast but messy one.