TypeSprintPractice for a job typing test
Many receptionist, administrative, customer service and legal assistant roles ask for a typing test of three to five minutes, often with a minimum of 35–50 net WPM and an accuracy requirement. Taking a 3-minute practice test regularly gets you used to the length, so nerves and fatigue do not cost you on the day.
Net WPM vs. gross WPM
Employers usually ask for net WPM: your speed after mistakes are taken out. This test shows net WPM as your main score and gross (raw) WPM beside it. If a job asks for 40 WPM, aim for at least 45 net WPM in practice to leave room for nerves and an unfamiliar keyboard.
Build stamina
- Practice at the same time of day for a week and track your best score.
- Mix this test with the paragraph test — real tests often use sentences with capitals and punctuation.
- Rest your hands for a minute between tests.
How your score is calculated
Every five correctly typed characters, including spaces, count as one word. Your WPM is the number of those words divided by the test length in minutes, so mistyped words do not count. Accuracy is the share of keys you pressed correctly. Read more about what your number means in our guide to the average typing speed.
Frequently asked questions
What WPM do employers want?
Common requirements are 35–45 WPM for general office roles, 50–60 WPM for administrative and executive assistants, and 60–80 WPM for transcription and data entry.
Are errors deducted?
Yes. Only correctly typed words count toward your net WPM, so every mistyped word lowers the score.
Can I get a certificate?
Yes. Enter your name after the test and download a certificate showing your WPM, accuracy, test length and date.