Typing tests count a “word” as five keystrokes, so long and short words balance out. Gross words a minute measures raw speed; net words a minute subtracts uncorrected errors, which is what employers usually ask for. Average adults type about 40 WPM; professional typists 65–75 WPM.
How to use the GWAM Calculator
- Words typed
- Typing time
- Uncorrected errors
- Every result field is editable: type into Gross words a minute (GWAM) and Typing time plus every other field update to match.
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter the number of words (or characters ÷ 5) typed, the time and the number of uncorrected errors.
Tips
- Track a typical week before planning – real figures beat estimates.
- Break big tasks into smaller pieces and plan buffer time for interruptions.
- Re-run the numbers when your inputs change so plans stay realistic.
- Use results as a guide for decisions, not as a precise prediction.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Counting calendar days when the deadline is in working days (or the reverse).
- Forgetting breaks, setup and handover time.
- Assuming every day is as productive as your best day.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Words typed | A number |
| Typing time | Units: s, min |
| Uncorrected errors | A number |
What each result means
- Gross words a minute (GWAM) = [Words typed]÷([Typing time]÷60)
- Net words a minute = max([Gross words a minute (GWAM)] – [Uncorrected errors]÷([Typing time]÷60), 0)
- Accuracy = ([Words typed] – [Uncorrected errors])÷[Words typed]×100
Example values
How the main result changes when Typing time changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Typing time (s) | Gross words a minute (GWAM) |
|---|---|
| 150 | 140 |
| 225 | 93.3 |
| 300 | 70 |
| 375 | 56 |
| 450 | 46.7 |
| 600 | 35 |
Formula
GWAM = words typed ÷ minutes (a word = 5 characters including spaces)Net WPM = GWAM − errors ÷ minutesAccuracy = (words − errors) ÷ wordsWorked example
Inputs — Words typed: 350; Typing time: 300 s; Uncorrected errors: 5.
Results — Gross words a minute (GWAM) = 70; Net words a minute = 69; Accuracy = 98.6 %.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good typing speed?
40 WPM is average; 60+ is good; 80+ is fast.
What is the difference between GWAM and net WPM?
GWAM is raw speed; net WPM subtracts a word for each uncorrected error per minute.
How is a word defined in typing tests?
As 5 characters, including spaces and punctuation.
What formula does the GWAM Calculator use?
GWAM = words typed ÷ minutes (a word = 5 characters including spaces).