Ratatype
The typing test is the part of Ratatype most people try first. It is short, it gives you a number, and it is a good way to see progress over time. A little preparation helps the number reflect your real ability rather than a bad moment.
What the test measures
You type a passage of text against a timer. Two numbers come out of it. Speed, in words per minute, where a word is usually counted as five characters including spaces. Accuracy, the share of characters you typed correctly. Both matter, and a high speed with poor accuracy is not a good result.
Before you start
- Check that your keyboard layout matches the one selected on the site. A wrong layout produces strange errors.
- Close chat apps and notifications. One pop-up can cost you several words.
- Warm up for two or three minutes with an easy lesson or a home row drill.
During the test
Keep your eyes on the text and read a word or two ahead of where your fingers are. Do not stop to fix every typo; keep a steady rhythm. A smooth, even pace almost always scores better than bursts of speed followed by pauses.
After the test
Look at where the errors happened. Are they always the same letters? Those keys need targeted practice. Are they at the end of the test? That points to tension and fatigue, which better posture and relaxed hands will fix.
How often to test
Once or twice a week is plenty. Testing every day turns practice into performance anxiety, and your daily number will jump around for reasons that have nothing to do with skill. A weekly result gives a much clearer trend.
Keep reading
Earning a Ratatype typing certificate
A certificate turns your practice into proof. Here is how to prepare for it and where it is useful.
Read full guide
How to increase your typing speed (WPM)
Speed is not about moving your fingers faster. It is about removing the pauses between keys.
Read full guide
How to improve typing accuracy
Clean typing saves more time than fast typing. These habits will cut your error rate.
Read full guide