How to Type Faster
Typing speed is measured in words per minute (WPM). The average person types around 35-40 WPM; trained touch typists usually reach 60-80 and beyond. The surprising secret to getting faster is that you do it by slowing down first.
Test your speed in Warm Up →1. Accuracy first, speed second
Typing fast with lots of mistakes is slower in practice, because you spend time correcting errors. Type at a speed where you make very few errors, and your speed will rise on its own as the movements become automatic.
2. Learn to touch type properly
If you still look at the keyboard or use only a few fingers, your speed will plateau. Learning the home row and the correct finger for every key removes the biggest bottleneck.
New to touch typing? Start here3. Build a steady rhythm
Aim for an even pace between keystrokes rather than bursts of speed followed by pauses. A smooth rhythm is faster over a whole paragraph than a jerky sprint.
4. Practice with real words and sentences
Once single keys feel natural, practice common words and full sentences - that is what you actually type every day. Our Baby steps, Walking and Running lessons move from words to full passages.
5. Practice a little every day
- 10-20 minutes daily beats one long session per week.
- Take short breaks and keep your posture relaxed to avoid strain.
- Track your WPM and accuracy over weeks, not minutes - progress is gradual.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good typing speed?
Around 40 WPM is fine for everyday use, 60-80 WPM is a strong touch-typing speed, and 100+ WPM is expert level. Accuracy above 95% matters more than the headline number.
How long does it take to double my typing speed?
It varies, but many people gain roughly 5-10 WPM per month of consistent daily practice once they are typing correctly without looking at the keyboard.
Does keyboard choice matter?
A comfortable keyboard helps, but technique and practice matter far more than hardware.
Ready to practice?
Learn touch typing with free step-by-step lessons - no sign-up needed.