How to Calculate WPM and Typing Accuracy (With Examples)
WPM and accuracy are easy to calculate once you know the formulas.
The WPM formula
Gross WPM is total characters typed divided by five, divided by the minutes. Net WPM uses only the correct characters.
The accuracy formula
Accuracy is correct characters divided by total characters typed, multiplied by 100.
Worked examples
Example 1
You type 1,000 correct characters in 5 minutes. That is 1000 / 5 / 5 = 40 WPM.
Example 2
If 950 of 1,000 typed characters are correct, your accuracy is 95%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does WPM stand for?
Words per minute.
Why is a word five characters?
It is a standard so tests are fair for every text.
What is gross WPM?
Speed counting every character you typed.
What is net WPM?
Speed counting only correct characters.
How do I find accuracy?
Divide correct characters by total characters, then multiply by 100.
Do spaces count?
Yes, spaces count as characters.
Does this site show net WPM?
Yes, the result uses correct characters.
Is a longer test more accurate?
Usually yes, because luck matters less.
Why does my WPM change each time?
Text, mood and focus all change your speed.
Where can I test myself?
Use the online typing test on this site.