This is handy for scoring a paper typing test, checking a result from another site, or understanding exactly how errors change a score.
WPM formulas
Typing speed uses a standard "word" of five characters, including spaces and punctuation, so that long and short words count fairly.
| Measure | Formula |
|---|---|
| Gross WPM | (characters typed / 5) / minutes |
| Net WPM | Gross WPM - (uncorrected errors / minutes) |
| CPM | characters typed / minutes |
| Accuracy | (characters - errors) / characters x 100 |
Worked example
You type 250 characters in one minute and leave 3 errors. Gross WPM is 250 / 5 / 1 = 50. Net WPM is 50 - 3 / 1 = 47. CPM is 250, and accuracy is (250 - 3) / 250 = 98.8%.
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Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between gross and net WPM?
Gross WPM counts everything you typed. Net WPM subtracts a penalty for each uncorrected error, so it's the fairer measure of useful speed.
Why is a word five characters?
It's the long-standing convention for typing tests. It makes scores comparable no matter which words appear in the text.
Is this how TypingAcademy tests are scored?
Our tests count correct characters directly, which gives the same result as net WPM when every error is a single wrong character.