// job typing tests
Need 40 WPM for a job? How to pass the typing test
Many jobs, like office, data-entry, customer-support and dispatcher roles, ask for a minimum typing speed, and 40 words per minute is a common target. Here's how to measure where you are and get there.
What 40 WPM means
Typing tests count every 5 characters as one word. 40 WPM means about 200 correct characters a minute. Many employer tests also check accuracy, so a fast but sloppy result may not count.
Every employer runs their test differently: some last one minute, some five, some count errors against you. Check with the employer which test they use, and practise at a similar length.
A simple plan
Start with a 60-second test on FastFingers to get your baseline WPM and accuracy. If you're well under 40, learn touch typing properly: home row first, without looking at the keys.
Practise a little every day rather than a lot once a week. Retest every few days. Once you can pass 40 WPM comfortably at high accuracy, aim a bit higher so nerves on the day don't push you under.
Lessons that help
Let the AI Coach build your practice
Once you know the basics, the AI Coach finds the keys and letter pairs holding back your speed and builds practice around them. Sign in for one free session a day.