Typing tests are designed to calculate typing speed in terms of WPM as well as mistakes. By measuring these two areas, typing tests encourage people to increase not only their speed but also their accuracy. WPM measures not full words but word units, according to typeonline.co.uk, which are comprised of five keystrokes. Spaces count as keystrokes, so both "hello" as well as "I'm a," for example, count as a word-unit.
You can test your typing speed online using free typing websites, such as Typeonline.co.uk and CalculatorCat.com. These tests require you to type a brief sample, as provided, into a field. When you're done, the website will provide your WPM and number of errors.
You can improve your typing score with practice. You should aim not only to increase your WPM but also reduce the number of errors, as speedy as well as accurate typing is important. You can retake online typing tests as many times as you would like and strive to better your scores over time.
There are several software programs on the market for kids and adults to teach how to type and improve typing speed. Most of these programs, such as Typing Instructor Platinum and Jump Start Platinum, include diagnostic tools to calculate your how many words per minute you can type. They also included instruction and activities to help you improve your WPM.