Online Typing Tests: A Step-by-Step Guide for U.S. Users
In an age of digital communication and efficiency, typing skill is a basic necessity of practically all professions. Whether the person is a student or a working candidate looking to better his type-writing skills or even when one is looking for further skills in a profession and occupation, an online assessment is the way to rate and confirm one's expertise.
For users in the United States, the task of researching the many options available for typing tests and understanding their benefits can be overwhelming. This paper provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to taking online typing tests and receiving a certification that aligns with American keyboarding standards.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to select the right test, prepare effectively, and earn a typing certificate that enhances your resume and career prospects.
Why Take an Online Typing Test?
1. Validate Your Skills
Typing tests measure your typing speed objectively, usually in words per minute or WPM, and accuracy. Many employers require candidates to meet specific typing benchmarks, and having a certificate demonstrates your capabilities upfront.
2. Boost Your Employability
For positions like administrative assistant, data entry clerk, or customer support representative, the speed and accuracy of typing are very important. Getting a certified typing test result can make you stand out from other applicants.
3. Convenience of Online Testing
Unlike the traditional in-person assessment, online typing tests can be taken at your convenience, where you can practice and prepare for the test from the comfort of your home.
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Typing Test Provider
What to Look for in a Provider:
Accreditation: Ensure the provider offers typing certificates recognized by U.S. employers. Examples include American Standard Typing Certificates (ASTC) and other reputable platforms.
Ease of Use: Choose a platform with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions.
Proctoring Options: Some employers prefer certificates from proctored tests, which ensure the authenticity of results.
Pricing: While some tests are free, others charge a fee for certification. Evaluate your budget and the value of the certificate.
Recommended Providers:
American Standard Typing Certificates (ASTC): Known for its adherence to American keyboarding standards and detailed certificates.
TypingTest.com: Offers free tests and printable certificates. These certificates may not be suitable for employment however.
Official-Typing-Test.com: Provides instant results with online typing speed scores.
Step 2: Prepare for the Typing Test
1. Assess Your Current Skills
Take a few practice tests to determine your base typing speed and accuracy. Familiarize yourself with common typing exercises using websites like TypingClub or Keybr.
2. Set Goals
Find out what WPM benchmark your target job or certification requires. For the most part, admin jobs in the U.S. require 40-50 WPM; more demanding jobs require 70+ WPM.
3. Practice Regularly
Dedicate 15-30 minutes daily to typing exercises. Focus on:
Improving accuracy before speed.
Using all fingers effectively (touch typing).
Familiarize yourself with common keyboard shortcuts.
4. Create a Conducive Environment
Choose a quiet, well-lit workspace free from distractions. Use an ergonomic keyboard and maintain proper posture to minimize fatigue.
Step 3: Take the Typing Test
1. Read the Instructions Carefully
Each test may have unique guidelines, such as:
Length of the test (e.g., 1-minute, 5-minute, or 10-minute tests). All of American Standard Typing Certificates tests are conducted over a 5-minute period, which is industry standard.
Type of text (e.g., random words, full sentences, or specialized content).
Scoring criteria (speed vs. accuracy).
2. Practice a Dry Run
If the platform offers a practice mode, use it to familiarize yourself with the interface. This reduces anxiety and ensures smoother performance during the actual test. All of our typing test packages come with unlimited practice tests.
3. Focus During the Test
Prioritize accuracy over speed; mistakes can lower your final score.
Maintain a steady pace rather than rushing.
Avoid looking at the keyboard if you’re practicing touch typing.
4. Complete the Test
Once finished, review your results. Most tests provide metrics like:
WPM (Words Per Minute): Measures typing speed.
Typing Accuracy Percentage: Indicates the number of errors made.
Error Details: Highlights common mistakes.
Step 4: Obtain Your Typing Certificate
Types of Certificates:
Basic Certificate: Includes your WPM and accuracy.
Detailed Certificate: Breaks down performance metrics and includes online verification for employers.
How to Access Your Certificate:
Download or print directly from the platform.
Share via email or provide a Skill Evaluator transcript to potential employers.
Step 5: Use Your Typing Certificate Effectively
1. Include in Your Resume
Add your typing speed and accuracy under the “Skills” section of your resume. For example: Certified Typing Speed: 70 WPM with 98% Accuracy.
2. Highlight in Job Applications
Mention your typing certification in your cover letter or application form, especially for roles requiring typing proficiency.
3. Share Typing Transcripts to Employers
Once a Main Test is completed students receive a Skill Evaluator Transcript via their nominated customer email address. This transcript can be shared with hiring managers to validate keyboarding skills.
Conclusion
Online typing tests can efficiently serve the purpose of testing one's typing skills. A typing certificate from a reputable organization such as American Standard Typing Certificates (ASTC) can really boost one's employability and give an edge in the competitive job market for those in the United States. With this step-by-step guide, anyone should be able to handle the process with ease, hone their skills, and be successful in showing their typing skills to prospective employers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Look for providers like American Standard Typing Certificates (ASTC) that adhere to American keyboard layouts and industry benchmarks.
-
The minimum WPM varies by role. Administrative and clerical jobs typically require 40-50 WPM, while transcriptionists and coders may need 70+ WPM.
-
Free tests are useful for practice, but paid tests often provide accredited certificates recognized by employers. Choose a paid test for official certifications and formal job applications.
-
Yes, most platforms allow multiple attempts. Use practice sessions to improve your skills before retaking the test. The American Standard Typing Test package comes with unlimited practice tests and up-to-6 Main Test attempts
-
Typing certificates do not expire, but updating them every 1-2 years is recommended to reflect your current skill level.
-
A proctored test is monitored by a supervisor (live or automated) to ensure that the test is completed without external assistance, enhancing its credibility. All ASTC Keyboarding Skills Certificates are virtually proctored by name, that is, we confirm that the typing student is the same individual who then takes the final keyboarding Skill Evaluator typing test.
-
Take access of American Standard Typing Tests unlimited practice tests and practice regularly. Work on touch typing, good posture and minimum distractions while practicing.
