Average Typing Speed Explained

Ask what was averaged

Suppose someone completes two runs at 40 and 60 WPM. The mean of the two scores is 50 WPM. If the first lasted one minute and the second lasted three, the combined rate is (40 × 1 + 60 × 3) ÷ 4 = 55 WPM. The first calculation gives each attempt equal weight. The second gives each minute equal weight.

Check who supplied the scores

An average of best scores from returning participants answers a different question from an average of first attempts. Before comparing yourself with a published figure, look for the participants, devices, language, duration, treatment of corrections and selection rule. If these details are unavailable, use comparable attempts of your own as a reference.

Read the scoring rule

This site’s scoring guide shows how correct characters, elapsed time and accumulated errors affect the result. A corrected error can still count toward accuracy. Keep your input method and passage category beside the figures when comparing sessions.