How many words can you type per minute? How accurate are you at that speed?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Entry Level Example
Answer Example
Experienced Example
Community Answers

The interviewer asks this question to determine if your skills meet the job requirements for typing speed. Before your interview, find out if they have a bottom line for the typing speed they expect from you. Many agencies will put their expected words per minute (WPM) in the job announcement. If you're not sure, now is the time to ask! Consider taking a test online to brush up on your skills. Speed and accuracy will be necessary for this role. Make sure you exude confidence in your abilities in your answer.

Focus on your typing speed and accuracy at that speed. The interviewer asks a two-part question, so be sure to answer both parts.

Avoid giving a speed that you are not comfortable with. If you say you type 60 words per minute but are only accurate at 40 words per minute, you give the interviewer inaccurate information. Remember, you may be issued a typing test as part of the hiring process, so you should provide factual information.

"I can type 70 words per minute. My accuracy is 92%. I recently took a typing class that greatly increased my skill level."

"I was recently tested on my typing speed. I can type 87 words per minute with an accuracy rate of 97%. Is this the skill level you are seeking for this Court Clerk position?"

"I have never seen my typing skills or speed as an issue. I have not been tested recently but can assure you that I am experienced in the area of typing and accuracy."

Anonymous Answer

"My typing speed is 60 words per minute."

Rachelle's Feedback

Nice! If you have tested your speed and accuracy lately, be sure to provide as much detail as you can.

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Anonymous Answer

"I recently tested myself with a typing quiz, and I can type 40 words per minute with an accuracy rate of 95%. Typing is one of my weaknesses, but I have been an effort to take inline typing classes to improve my speed."

Chad's Feedback

Nice! Including the results of the typing quiz will let the employer know exactly where your typing skills are currently. I would caution against identifying typing as a weakness, however, as it is a core competency of the position. Instead, highlight the fact you are completing online classes to continue improving your speed and accuracy. I have suggested a slight revision below.

"I recently tested myself with a typing quiz, and I can type 40 words per minute with an accuracy rate of 95%. I have been completing online typing classes to increase my skill level, and am seeing continuous improvement in my speed."

Anonymous Answer

"Although I haven't timed in years, it is somewhere between 60-80. I learned to type at the business school my grandmother worked at years ago on Long Island. I type on the computer on a daily basis."

Cindy's Feedback

Good! I like the additional information to describe the depth of your experience. Have you cultivated this skill in your daily work? Would this help add a persuasive element to your answer?

Anonymous Answer

"I have not been recently tested on my typing skills, but I can assure you that is not a problem that I will experience in this position."

Chad's Feedback

Good answer! As typing speed and accuracy will be necessary for the role, consider taking a test online before the interview to determine your skill level. You may also inquire if there is a minimum requirement for the role.

How to Answer: How many words can you type per minute? How accurate are you at that speed?