Typing Speed Test
How fast can you type? Start typing to begin the timer. See your WPM, accuracy, and CPM in real time.
Average Typing Speeds
The average person types around 40 words per minute. If you can hit 60 WPM, you are faster than most people. Professional typists and programmers often reach 80-100 WPM. The world record for typing on a standard keyboard is over 200 WPM.
How to Type Faster
The biggest improvement comes from proper finger placement on the home row (ASDF JKL;). Use all 10 fingers instead of hunting and pecking. Practice regularly, even just 10-15 minutes a day. Focus on accuracy first because speed follows naturally. Do not look at the keyboard.
How is WPM calculated?
WPM is calculated by dividing the number of correct characters typed by 5 (the standard word length), then dividing by the elapsed time in minutes. For example, 300 correct characters in 60 seconds equals (300/5)/1 = 60 WPM.
What is a good accuracy percentage?
95% accuracy or above is considered good. Professional typists aim for 98-99%. Below 90%, your effective speed drops significantly because you spend time fixing mistakes. It is better to type 50 WPM at 98% accuracy than 70 WPM at 85%.
Does typing speed matter for programming?
Somewhat. Most programmers type between 50-80 WPM, which is plenty fast. Programming speed is more about thinking than typing. However, faster typing does help with documentation, emails, code reviews, and chat communication.