Keyboarding Test for Employment: What Employers Look For

Many employers use keyboarding tests as part of their hiring process to ensure candidates have the necessary typing skills for the position. Understanding what employers evaluate can help you prepare effectively and increase your chances of success.

Why Employers Use Keyboarding Tests

Objective Skill Assessment

Keyboarding tests provide employers with:

• Quantifiable metrics for comparing candidates
• Standardized evaluation across all applicants
• Immediate results without subjective interpretation
• Relevant skill verification for job requirements

Cost-Effective Screening

• Reduces training time for new employees
• Identifies qualified candidates early in the process
• Minimizes hiring mistakes and turnover
• Streamlines the selection process

What Employers Measure in Keyboarding Tests

Primary Metrics

Typing Speed (WPM)

• Minimum requirements vary by position
• Sustained performance over test duration

Before the Test:

1. Ask about specific requirements and expectations
2. Understand the test format and duration
3. Learn about typical content and difficulty
4. Clarify equipment and software used

Practice Accordingly:

• Match practice conditions to test environment
• Use similar text types to job requirements
• Practice for expected test duration
• Simulate workplace distractions

Strategic Preparation

2-Week Intensive Prep:

Week 1: Foundation

• Daily keyboarding tests to establish baseline
• Focus on accuracy over speed initially
• Practice job-relevant content types
• Build consistent performance habits

Week 2: Refinement

• and duration