How employment typing tests usually work
Most pre-employment typing tests follow a similar pattern: you're sent a link or asked to attend in person, given instructions, then asked to type a passage for a fixed time. Results typically include net WPM and accuracy, and some tests also record how many errors you corrected.
What employers look for
- Speed that is sufficient for the role's workload
- High accuracy, because errors create extra work for colleagues
- Consistency — steady performance rather than bursts
- Honest results — many tests block pasting and record interruptions
On the day
Use a familiar keyboard if you can, close other tabs and notifications, and give yourself a minute to settle. Read the instructions carefully — some tests don't allow backspace.
- Time
- 3:00
- WPM
- –
- Accuracy
- –
- Errors
- 0
Type the text exactly as shown. Your timer begins when you type the first character.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is a typical employment typing test?
- Commonly between one and five minutes, with three and five minutes being popular for typing-heavy roles.
- Can I retake an employer's typing test?
- It depends on the employer. On Typing Gauge employer assessments, a candidate can only retake if the employer allows it.