About the 1-minute typing test
A 1-minute test is the most common way to report typing speed on a CV. It measures burst speed rather than stamina, so expect your 10-minute result to be a little lower.
The test uses easy, medium and India-themed passages in plain English, so your result reflects your typing rather than your vocabulary.
How many words should you type in 1 minute?
| Speed | Words in 1 min | Characters (approx.) | Key depressions per hour |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 WPM | 20 | 100 | 6,000 |
| 25 WPM | 25 | 125 | 7,500 |
| 30 WPM | 30 | 150 | 9,000 |
| 35 WPM | 35 | 175 | 10,500 |
| 40 WPM | 40 | 200 | 12,000 |
| 50 WPM | 50 | 250 | 15,000 |
| 60 WPM | 60 | 300 | 18,000 |
For example, to pass a 30 WPM test you need about 30 correct words in 1 minute, and for 35 WPM you need about 35. Mistakes are subtracted, so aim for 10% above the target in practice.
Practise smarter at this length
- Repeat the test three times and compare: the second and third attempt show your true speed.
- Focus on rhythm, an even pace, rather than bursts of speed followed by mistakes.
- Check the word-by-word report after each attempt. If the same words are wrong every time, practise them separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1-minute typing test free?
Yes, free and without sign-up. Your results are saved in your own browser on the My progress page.
How many words is 30 WPM in 1 minutes?
About 30 words, or roughly 150 characters including spaces.
Can I choose a different passage?
Yes. Use the Passage menu above the test to pick a specific passage, or leave it on Random.