3 Minute Typing Test

How to play: click the text box and type the highlighted word, then press SPACE. The 3 minute timer starts with your first key. Press ESC to restart with new words.

This free 3 minute typing test measures your typing speed in words per minute (WPM) and your accuracy over 180 seconds. Three minutes sits between the quick 1 and 2 minute tests and the longer 5 minute test: long enough to show your real working speed, short enough to stay focused all the way through.

The words are random common English words, so every test is different. Your best 3 minute score is saved in your browser on this device.

How the 3 minute typing test works

1. Click the text box. The first word is highlighted.
2. Type the word and press SPACE. The 3:00 countdown starts on your first key.
3. Correct words turn lime. Mistakes turn red and are crossed out.
4. When the time is up you see your WPM, your accuracy and your number of mistakes.

WPM is the characters of all correct words, including spaces, divided by 5 and then by 3 minutes. Words with a mistake do not count towards your speed.

Why take a 3 minute typing test?

• A realistic average. Over three minutes, a fast start or a few slow words have little effect, so your score is close to how you type every day.
• It shows consistency. Many people are fast for the first minute and slow down after that. A 3 minute test shows whether your speed holds.
• It fits into a short break. You can take a test, check your mistakes and try again in under ten minutes.

What is a good 3 minute typing score?

Expect a score a little below your 1 minute result. As a guide, around 40 WPM is often quoted as an average for adults who type regularly, 60 WPM is fast, and experienced touch typists often stay above 80 WPM. Aim to keep your accuracy at 95% or more.

Tips for a steady 3 minutes

• Start at a pace you can keep. Going too fast in the first 30 seconds often leads to mistakes later.
• Read one word ahead. Look at the next word while you type the current one.
• Do not stop after a mistake. Fix it calmly or move on.
• Keep your hands relaxed. Light keystrokes are faster and less tiring.

Other test lengths

• 1 Minute Typing Test
• 2 Minute Typing Test
• 5 Minute Typing Test
• 10 Minute Typing Test
• 15 Minute Typing Test
• Typing Speed Test with a choice of 15 seconds to 5 minutes

Frequently asked questions

When does the timer start?

The timer starts with your first key press, so you can read the first words before you begin.

Can I pause the test?

No. Once the timer starts it runs to the end. Press ESC to restart.

Are capitals and punctuation included?

No. All words are lower case with no punctuation, so the test measures speed and accuracy only.

Is my best score saved?

Yes, your best 3 minute score is saved in your browser on this device. Nothing is uploaded.