How is typing speed commonly measured?

Typing speed is commonly measured in words per minute (WPM), which quantifies how many words an individual can accurately type within a minute. This measurement takes into account the standard definition of a word, typically considered as five characters, including spaces and punctuation.

The WPM metric is widely accepted because it provides a more practical understanding of a typist's capability to produce readable text. It emphasizes not just speed but also accuracy, as the count focuses on complete words rather than individual letters or characters, giving a clearer representation of typing performance in real-world scenarios.

While it is possible to measure typing speed in characters per minute (CPM), which counts every character including letters, spaces, and punctuation, WPM is generally preferred for its relatability and simplicity in determining how quickly someone can type coherent text. Similarly, measuring typing speed in pages per hour (PPH) might not give a precise reflection of performance on a smaller scale, such as when drafting a short email or report. Thus, WPM is the standard measure used in both education and professional settings to assess typing proficiency.