What should be my desired WPM to be considered a good touch typist?
Hi!
Typing 45 to 50 words per minute (wpm) might help you meet the minimum requirements for an office job, but it won’t help you set any world records for typing speed. People have probably been competing for the title of “world’s fastest typist” ever since the typewriter was invented, but until the machinery of the typewriter was improved to eliminate most of the moving parts, real speed wasn’t possible. The first official speed records were set in the 1940s by Stella Pajunas, who traveled the world showing people how the electric typewriter could help them achieve speed and efficiency. According to the September 16, 1947 issue of The Montreal Gazette, Pajunas showed off her speed by demonstrating the ability to type 163 words in one minute, and then told the audience that “rhythm, posture and touch are the secret of speed and accuracy in typewriting.”
Obviously 163 WPM is an achievable goal! If you’re using the Typesy software system, you can program your goal in and let the software help you track your progress towards that number. If you’re really aiming high, put 165 WPM as your target goal – but only if you’re already a good typist with a speed of no less than 50 WPM. If you’re just starting, it will take time for you to build your skill and accuracy, so set a lower goal and then keep raising it as you improve. But no matter where you’re starting, practice and the application of good typing techniques will get you the typing speed you need.
Best Regards,
Arella Bernales
Community Moderator at Typesy