3 minute typing test

What three minutes shows that one minute does not

Almost anyone can concentrate hard for a minute. By the second and third minutes, your attention starts to drift and small errors creep in. A three-minute score is a better guide to how you type when you are working on something real.

How to pace yourself

Starting at your one-minute speed is the most common mistake on this test, because it often leads to a cluster of errors around the halfway point. Begin a little below your top speed, settle into a rhythm, and speed up in the final 30 seconds if you still feel comfortable.

• Relax your shoulders and hands before you start. Tension builds faster than you notice.
• Look ahead to the next word rather than the letter you are typing.
• If you make a mistake, fix it calmly and carry on. Do not let it break your rhythm.

Reading your result

Compare your score with your one-minute result on your stats page. A small drop is normal. A large drop usually points to tension or rushing at the start, and pacing yourself is the quickest way to close that gap.