How to use the Typing Speed
- Enter total characters typed, including spaces.
- Enter the time taken in minutes.
- Enter the number of uncorrected errors.
- Read gross WPM, accuracy and net WPM.
How the calculation works
Gross WPM = (characters ÷ 5) ÷ minutes. The five-character convention, including the space, standardises across texts so results are comparable. Net WPM subtracts one word per uncorrected error: net = gross − (errors ÷ minutes). Accuracy is correct characters ÷ total characters, and it is the figure that governs practical output, since correcting mistakes costs more time than typing slowly would have.
Reference points: around 40 WPM is average for adults, 65–75 is strong professional speed, and above 100 is rare. Data-entry and transcription roles often require a net figure at 98% accuracy or better, which is why raw speed alone is a poor benchmark. Improvement comes from touch typing with correct finger assignment and from eliminating the backspace habit — deliberate practice at 90% of your top speed builds accuracy faster than repeatedly straining for a peak number.
Gross WPM = (characters / 5) / minutes ; Net WPM = gross − (errors / minutes)Source: Standard typing-test convention: one word equals five keystrokes including spaces.
Worked example
1,420 characters typed in 3 minutes with 9 uncorrected errors.
- Words = 1,420 / 5 = 284.
- Gross WPM = 284 / 3 = 94.7.
- Error penalty = 9 / 3 = 3.
- Net WPM = 91.7; accuracy = 1,411 / 1,420 = 99.4%.
About 95 gross and 92 net WPM at 99.4% accuracy — a professional-grade result.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a word five characters?+
It standardises scores across texts so passages with long words are not unfairly penalised.
What is a good typing speed?+
40 WPM is average, 65–75 strong, and above 100 uncommon.
Does accuracy matter more than speed?+
Usually yes. Corrections cost more time than a slightly slower, cleaner pass.
How do I improve fastest?+
Touch type with correct finger placement and practise at about 90% of your peak speed.
Last reviewed August 31, 2026. We review this page whenever the underlying formula, tax year, published rate or standard changes.