Typewriting / Computer Typing Speed and Accuracy
The exam measures keyboarding speed and accuracy under timed conditions, usually on a computer or typewriter, with a prescribed error penalty.
Technique
- Touch-type from the home row: ASDF for the left hand, JKL; for the right; thumbs on the space bar.
- Keep wrists relaxed, eyes on the copy, and use a consistent rhythm rather than bursts.
- Use the correct finger for each key and avoid looking at the keyboard.
Speed and accuracy
- Gross speed = total words typed divided by minutes.
- Net speed = gross speed minus the prescribed error penalty; follow the board's exact rule.
- Accuracy is usually worth more than raw speed because errors cancel words.
Worked example
A candidate types 300 words in 10 minutes with 6 uncorrected errors. Gross = 300 divided by 10 = 30 wpm. If the rule deducts one word per error, net = (300 minus 6) divided by 10 = 29.4 wpm. Reasoning: the penalty is applied to the word count before dividing, not to the time.
Traps
- Backspacing repeatedly and losing rhythm.
- Missing the space after punctuation.
- Using auto-correct or smart quotes that change the text.
- Ignoring required line spacing and margins.
Key points are listed in the key_points field.