What Is a Good Typing Speed? WPM Explained
Typing speed is usually measured in words per minute (WPM). Because words have different lengths, a "word" in typing tests is defined as five characters, including spaces. So typing 250 characters in one minute equals 50 WPM. Our typing tutor shows both characters per minute and WPM while you type.
Typical typing speeds
| Speed | What it means |
|---|---|
| Under 25 WPM | Beginner or "hunt and peck" typing, usually looking at the keyboard. |
| 25–40 WPM | Average for adults who type casually. |
| 40–60 WPM | Good. Comfortable for school and most office work. |
| 60–80 WPM | Very good. Typical of people who type all day. |
| 80–100+ WPM | Excellent. Professional transcription level. |
For most people, 40–60 WPM with high accuracy is a great target. Above that, speed matters less than accuracy and comfort.
Why accuracy matters more than speed
Every mistake costs more time than it seems: you have to notice it, delete it and type it again. A typist at 60 WPM with 90% accuracy is often slower in real work than one at 50 WPM with 98% accuracy. Many typing tests calculate net WPM, which subtracts errors from your raw speed.
How to type faster
- Learn touch typing. If you still look at the keys, this is the biggest improvement you can make. See our step-by-step touch typing guide.
- Type in rhythm. An even beat is faster than bursts and pauses.
- Read ahead. Look one or two words ahead of what you are typing.
- Practice weak keys. Notice which letters cause errors and practice lessons that use them.
- Sit well. Good posture reduces tension and keeps your fingers relaxed.
How fast can you improve?
With 15 minutes of focused practice a day, many learners gain 5–10 WPM per month in the first few months. Progress slows as you get faster – that is normal. Track your best scores and celebrate accuracy, not just speed.