A typing speed test measures a candidate’s ability to type, using an actual passage of text. It typically gives a time limit and has several options for different keyboard layouts, languages, and text difficulty. Most typing tests will display three scores: how many words the tester types in a minute, how many errors were made, and an adjusted word-per-minute (which takes into account the number of errors).

Depending on the job industry, employers will have unique requirements for what they consider a passing score. However, a typical office worker is expected to have at least 50 WPM. This is a basic requirement to be able to work in any data entry job.

For those who want to improve their typing skills, the best approach is to practice daily and correctly. Incorrect typing slows down your speed, and also makes it difficult to focus on other tasks at hand. By focusing on correcting mistakes and practicing daily, you will find that your accuracy and speed will improve over time.

There are numerous online typing tests available, and the majority of them measure how many words you can type in a minute. Some of them will offer additional data, such as gross words per hour and keystrokes per hour (KPH). The latter is a more accurate representation of your typing speed, because it counts each character, including any doublets and errors. The only drawback is that it will not distinguish between QWERTY and DVORAK keyboard layouts. typing speed test