What DEST asks for
The Data Entry Speed Test applies to posts such as Tax Assistant (CBIC and CBDT) in SSC CGL. Candidates type an English passage of about 2,000 key depressions within 15 minutes. That works out to about 8,000 key depressions per hour, or roughly 27 WPM. The test is qualifying.
2,000 key depressions in 15 minutes sounds easy, and it is for a trained typist. What fails most candidates is nerves and errors, not speed. Treat accuracy as part of the target.
Key depressions explained
A key depression is one press of any key: a letter, a space, Shift, a punctuation mark. Typing "India," takes 7 key depressions (Shift, I, n, d, i, a and the comma). Our counter counts every press, including backspace, and shows both the total and KDPH on your result.
How to prepare
- Reach 30 WPM net on the 15-minute test. That gives about 2,250 key depressions.
- Practise on the advanced test so that capitals and punctuation do not slow you down.
- Do one full 15-minute DEST simulation every two days in the last month.
Frequently asked questions
How many WPM is 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes?
About 27 WPM: 2,000 characters ÷ 5 = 400 words, ÷ 15 minutes ≈ 26.7 WPM.
Is DEST in Hindi?
No. DEST is conducted on an English passage.
Is DEST compulsory for every CGL post?
No. It applies to specific posts such as Tax Assistant. Check the CGL notification for the posts you have chosen.