Typing speed is a hidden bottleneck on the GP SJT
The typed response section gives you 3 minutes 30 seconds to answer two open-ended questions. Candidates who type slowly run out of time before they can develop the nuanced, empathetic answers that score in the top quartile.
3:30
Per typed scenario (2 questions)
60+ WPM
Recommended minimum speed
~60%
Of candidates type below this threshold
Why speed compounds on this test
Each typed scenario asks you to reason about an ethical dilemma, show empathy, consider multiple stakeholders, and propose a practical first step, all in 3.5 minutes across two questions. Every second you spend typing is a second you can't spend thinking.
Raters evaluate your response against nine RACGP competencies. Shallow, under-developed answers rarely clear Q3. The candidates who score Q4 consistently are the ones who had spare time to re-read, refine, and add the small empathetic details that separate a competent answer from an excellent one.
Where do you stand?
Below 40 WPM
Significant time pressure. You'll likely run out of time mid-thought. Daily typing practice is essential before test day.
40–59 WPM
Adequate, but tight. You can finish both answers, but there's little room to refine or add nuance.
60–79 WPM
Good. Speed is no longer the bottleneck, so focus your preparation on response quality and reasoning depth.
80+ WPM
Excellent. You'll have real thinking time to craft Q4-calibre responses.