Typing Speed Test
How fast can you type? Test your typing speed in words per minute (WPM) and accuracy. Start typing to begin the test.
Test Complete!
What is a Typing Speed Test?
A typing speed test measures how fast you can type in words per minute (WPM). The standard calculation considers 5 characters (including spaces) as one "word." This test also tracks your accuracy (percentage of correct keystrokes) and CPM (characters per minute).
Your typing speed is an essential skill for school, work, and everyday computer use. The average person types at about 40 WPM, but with regular practice, you can significantly improve your speed and accuracy.
Average Typing Speed by Skill Level
| Skill Level | Speed (WPM) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 0–25 | Learning to type, hunt and peck method |
| Below Average | 25–40 | Casual typist, some touch typing |
| Average | 40–55 | Most adults, adequate for office work |
| Above Average | 55–75 | Good typist, comfortable with touch typing |
| Fast | 75–100 | Professional typist, transcriptionist |
| Very Fast | 100–130 | Expert level, court reporter speed |
| Exceptional | 130+ | Competitive typist, top 1% |
How to Improve Your Typing Speed
- Learn proper finger placement: Place your fingers on the home row (ASDF for left hand, JKL; for right hand) and use the correct finger for each key.
- Don't look at the keyboard: Focus on the screen. Muscle memory develops faster when you resist the urge to look down.
- Prioritize accuracy over speed: It's better to type slowly and correctly than to type fast with many errors. Speed comes naturally with accuracy.
- Practice consistently: 15–20 minutes of daily practice is more effective than longer, infrequent sessions.
- Use all 10 fingers: Even if hunt-and-peck feels faster now, touch typing will be significantly faster once mastered.
Touch Typing: The Home Row Method
Touch typing is the most efficient typing technique. Your fingers rest on the "home row" keys and each finger is responsible for a column of keys above and below. The F and J keys have small bumps to help you find the home row without looking. With practice, your fingers learn to reach each key automatically through muscle memory.