How to use the Typing Speed Test
- 1. Pick a lengthChoose 30, 60 or 120 seconds.
- 2. Start typingThe timer begins with your first key. Green is right and red is wrong.
- 3. See your scoreGet your speed, accuracy and errors when time runs out.
How your score is calculated
Typing tests use a standard rule: one word equals five characters, including spaces. This keeps scores fair, as long words and short words balance out.
- Gross WPM = all characters typed ÷ 5 ÷ minutes taken.
- Net WPM = correct characters ÷ 5 ÷ minutes taken. This is your main score.
- Accuracy = correct characters ÷ all characters typed × 100.
For example, typing 250 characters in one minute with 240 correct gives a gross speed of 50 WPM, a net speed of 48 WPM and accuracy of 96%. If you fix a mistake before time runs out, it stops counting as an error, although going back does take time.
How to type faster
- Aim for accuracy first. Speed comes once your fingers stop making mistakes.
- Use all your fingers, starting from the home row keys (A S D F and J K L ;).
- Look at the screen, not at the keyboard.
- Practise a little every day. Ten minutes daily works better than one long session a week.
When typing speed matters
Some government exams and data entry jobs have a typing test, and each one sets its own speed, language and rules. Always check the official notice for your exam, as this practice test is not an official certificate.
Each attempt uses passages in a different order, with normal capitals, punctuation and some numbers. A longer test is usually a truer picture of your speed, because a 30 second burst is easier to sprint through. A physical keyboard will usually give better results than a phone. Paste is turned off so that your score stays real. Plan regular practice with the Pomodoro timer, or try the aptitude test next.
Frequently asked questions
What does WPM mean?
Words per minute. In typing tests, one word is counted as five characters, so scores are comparable across different texts.
What is the difference between gross and net WPM?
Gross WPM counts everything you typed. Net WPM counts only correct characters, so it is lower if you leave mistakes in.
Does fixing a mistake hurt my score?
A fixed mistake no longer counts as an error, but going back uses up time, so it lowers your speed a little.
Is this tool free?
Yes. You enter your name and WhatsApp number once when you see your first result, and all other Uncodemy tools then open without the form.