Enter your total words typed, test duration (in minutes), and number of errors to calculate your GWAM (Gross Words A Minute) typing speed. Your results include GWAM, NWAM (Net Words A Minute), and an accuracy percentage — giving you a complete picture of your typing performance.
GWAM (Gross Words Per Minute)
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NWAM (Net Words Per Minute)
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Accuracy
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Error Penalty
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GWAM stands for Gross Words A Minute and measures your raw typing speed — every word you typed, regardless of errors. Standard WPM (Words Per Minute) often refers to net speed after subtracting error penalties. GWAM gives you your maximum potential speed, while NWAM (Net Words A Minute) reflects your practical, accurate speed.
GWAM is calculated by dividing the total number of words typed by the duration of the test in minutes. For example, if you typed 250 words in 5 minutes, your GWAM is 50. The formula is: GWAM = Total Words Typed ÷ Time (in minutes).
NWAM (Net Words A Minute) adjusts your gross speed by subtracting an error penalty. The standard formula deducts 1 word per error per minute from your GWAM. So if your GWAM is 50 and you made 5 errors in a 5-minute test, your error penalty is 1 WPM and your NWAM is 49.
An average typist scores between 40–60 GWAM. Scores above 70 GWAM are considered above average, and professional typists often exceed 90–100 GWAM. Touch typists with proper technique can reach 120+ GWAM. The most important factor alongside speed is accuracy — a high GWAM with many errors results in a much lower NWAM.
Accuracy is crucial because errors reduce your net typing speed. Each error adds a penalty that lowers your NWAM. For example, a GWAM of 80 with 20 errors over 5 minutes produces an error penalty of 4 WPM, yielding a NWAM of 76. Focusing on reducing errors often improves your effective typing speed more than simply trying to type faster.
The standard error penalty is 1 word deducted per error per minute of the test. So if you made 10 errors in a 2-minute test, the penalty is 5 WPM (10 ÷ 2). This penalty is subtracted from your GWAM to calculate your NWAM.
Yes. Simply set the Test Duration to 1 minute, enter the total words typed and number of errors. For a 1-minute test, GWAM equals the total words typed, and the error penalty equals the number of errors, making the math very straightforward.
Consistent daily practice is the most effective way to improve. Focus on proper finger placement using the home row keys, avoid looking at the keyboard, and practice with structured typing lessons or tests. Building muscle memory and reducing errors will naturally increase both your GWAM and NWAM over time.