Free tools
Typing speed test
See how fast you really type. Take the 60-second test, watch your words per minute and accuracy update live, then get your rating band. Free, no sign-up, and a bit of fun.
Click the box and start typing to begin.
0WPM
words per minute
BeginnerWhy typing speed matters for your job hunt
Almost every office job now runs on a keyboard. Whether you are clearing an inbox, keying orders into a system or replying to customers on live chat, how fast and accurately you type quietly shapes how much you get through in a day. For admin, data entry and customer service roles in particular, employers often ask about typing speed, and some set a quick test at interview. Knowing roughly where you stand, and nudging it up a little, is an easy win on your CV.
This test gives you a live reading in seconds. Take the 60-second mode to see your natural pace under a bit of pressure, or switch to type the passage for a calmer run at a fixed piece of text.
How we work out your score
Your speed is shown in words per minute (WPM). We count the characters you type correctly, divide by five for the average word length, then divide by the time taken. Accuracy is the share of what you typed that matched the text, so mistakes pull it down. The rating bands below are a rough guide, not a hard rule.
| Rating | Speed | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Under 30 WPM | A normal starting point. Daily practice moves this up fast. |
| Average | 30 to 50 WPM | Typical office typing speed. Perfectly workable. |
| Fast | 50 to 70 WPM | Comfortably quick for admin and customer service. |
| Pro | 70+ WPM | Professional data entry and transcription pace. |
Tips to type faster
- Rest your fingers on the home row (a s d f and j k l) and let them return there between keys.
- Look at the screen, not the keyboard, even if it feels slower at first.
- Go for a steady rhythm rather than bursts, and keep accuracy above speed.
- Practise little and often. A few minutes a day beats one long session.
Frequently asked questions
How is typing speed measured?
Typing speed is measured in words per minute, or WPM. We take the number of characters you type correctly, divide by five (the average length of an English word), then divide by the time you spent typing. Accuracy is the share of the characters you typed that matched the text, so it drops when you make mistakes.
What is a good typing speed?
Most people type between 30 and 50 WPM, which is fine for everyday office work. Around 50 to 70 WPM is fast and comfortable for admin and customer service roles. Above 70 WPM is professional data entry and transcription territory. Under 30 WPM is a normal starting point and climbs quickly with a little daily practice.
How can I type faster?
Keep your fingers on the home row keys, look at the screen rather than the keyboard, and aim for a steady rhythm rather than rushing. Accuracy comes first, because fixing mistakes wastes more time than it saves. A few minutes of practice each day makes a real difference within a couple of weeks.
Does this give me a typing certificate?
No. This is a free practice and self-check tool to help you see roughly how fast you type and improve. It is not an accredited qualification and does not produce a certificate. If a job needs proof of your typing speed, ask the employer which recognised test they accept.
Which jobs need good typing?
Fast, accurate typing helps in almost any role that involves a keyboard: administration, data entry, customer service, reception, transcription, virtual assistant work and most office jobs. Even where speed is not tested, being quick on the keys means less time on admin and more time on the parts of the job that matter.
Put those fast fingers to work
Admin and office roles across the UK, with the pay shown up front. Free to search and apply.