Practice vs. Timed Tests

TODAY Type offers two main modes for typing exercises: Practice mode for skill building and Test mode for official assessments. Understanding when to use each helps you train effectively.

Practice Mode

What Is Practice Mode?

Practice mode is designed for learning and improvement without the pressure of recorded scores.

Key Features

  • Personalized text - Exercises use only your unlocked keys, building skills progressively
  • No official recording - Results don't affect your leaderboard ranking or best scores
  • Immediate feedback - See your WPM and accuracy in real-time
  • Unlimited retries - Practice as many times as you want
  • Learning-focused - Text adapts to target your weak areas

When to Use Practice Mode

  • When learning new keys
  • Warming up before an official test
  • Experimenting with new techniques
  • Building muscle memory without pressure
  • Practicing after a long break

Test Mode

What Is Test Mode?

Test mode provides standardized assessments that are recorded and count toward your official statistics.

Key Features

  • Standardized text - Same passages used for fair comparison across users
  • Official recording - Results saved to your profile statistics
  • Leaderboard eligible - High scores appear on leaderboards
  • Best score tracking - Your best WPM and accuracy are recorded
  • Consistent difficulty - Medium or Hard difficulty options

When to Use Test Mode

  • Measuring your current skill level
  • Tracking improvement over time
  • Competing on leaderboards
  • Proving your abilities to employers
  • Setting personal records

Comparison

Feature Practice Mode Test Mode
Results Saved Training stats only Official stats & leaderboards
Text Content Personalized to your level Standardized passages
Purpose Learning & improvement Assessment & competition
Pressure Level Low - focus on learning Higher - performance matters
Best For Daily training Weekly assessments

Recommended Approach

Optimal Training Schedule

Daily: 15-20 minutes of Practice mode
Weekly: 1-2 official Tests to track progress
Monthly: Review your statistics to identify trends

Progression Strategy

  1. Warm up with Practice
    Start each session with 5 minutes of practice to get your fingers moving.
  2. Focus on weak areas
    Spend time on exercises targeting your problem keys.
  3. Take an official Test
    When you feel warmed up, take a Test to measure your current level.
  4. Review and repeat
    Check your results, identify areas for improvement, and practice those areas.

Remember

Practice mode is where you build skills. Test mode is where you prove them. Use both regularly for the best results!

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