Typing speed for jobs
Most job adverts that mention typing ask for 40 to 60 WPM with 95% accuracy. Data entry and transcription ask for more. Here is what to expect for each kind of job.
Typical requirements
| Role | Typical WPM | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| Customer service and support | 35 to 45 | 95% |
| Receptionist and front desk | 40 to 50 | 95% |
| Administrative assistant | 45 to 60 | 95% to 98% |
| Data entry | 55 to 80 (about 10,000 to 15,000 KPH) | 98% or higher |
| Legal or medical secretary | 60 to 80 | 97% or higher |
| Transcription and court work | 80 and up | 98% or higher |
How employers test
Most use a test of one to five minutes, taken online or in the office. They look at your net speed (words typed correctly per minute) and your accuracy. Some use a test with the kind of text you would type in the job, such as numbers for data entry or names and addresses for reception. You can practise with the typing test for job applications and the data entry typing test.
Keystrokes per hour
Some data entry jobs quote keystrokes per hour (KPH). One word is five keystrokes, so multiply WPM by 300 to get KPH. A speed of 40 WPM is 12,000 KPH. Our WPM calculator does the conversion for you.
Tips for the test
Use a keyboard that you know, sit well, and warm up for two minutes with easy text before you start the real test. Do not stop to fix a mistake in the middle of the test, because that ruins your rhythm. A score of 45 WPM with 97% accuracy usually beats 60 WPM with 90%.
Questions
What typing speed do employers want?
For most office jobs, 40 to 60 WPM with 95% accuracy.
What is a good typing speed for data entry?
Usually 55 to 80 WPM or about 10,000 to 15,000 keystrokes per hour, with very high accuracy.
Is 40 WPM enough to get a job?
It is enough for many entry level jobs. Some ask for 45 or more, so a bit of practice helps.