Data Entry Practice Test Created By Karen Freeman-Smith (2024)

FAQs

What is the typing test for a 911 dispatcher? ›

The CritiCall Typing Test is designed to examine your ability to accurately and efficiently input data, which is a crucial skill for 911 dispatchers. This is what you can expect from the test: The most important thing to practice is your typing speed. You'll be allowed five minutes to complete the test.

To pass the CritiCall dispatch test, aim for a score of 60% to 70% in each section. Doing well on the test usually requires good comprehension and the ability to communicate information quickly. Your test score is based on three factors: keystrokes per hour, words per minute, and your percentage scores in each section.

CritiCall Test Retake Policies

What if you don't pass on your first try? Don't worry – many agencies offer retake policies, although these can vary. Some might allow immediate retakes, while others may require a waiting period.

The CritiCall test is challenging, but you can be ready to take it successfully with preparation and studying. The test will judge your decision-making speed, response accuracy, and ability to follow directions and rules.

There is no one-size-fits-all policy for the number of times you can retake a CritiCall test, as it varies from agency to agency. Some allow retesting after six months, while others only permit it when they are advertising an open position again.

The Dispatcher test is considered a hard exam since it simulates the challenging tasks of actual 911 dispatchers. Also, since most candidates take the exam without any prior dispatch experience, they're often overwhelmed by its unique sections, such as multitasking, call summarization, and more.

What is the Average Typing Speed for a 911 Dispatcher? The average typing speed for a 911 dispatcher is usually between 30 and 50 words per minute (WPM). However, many agencies require that applicants have at least 35-40 WPM. The desired typing speed will vary depending on the agency for which you are applying.

Many 911 operator positions require candidates to achieve approximately 40 - 45 words per minute on a typing test with very high accuracy. You can practice for your typing test for free.

The CritiCall testing process will take, on average, between one and three hours to complete. Many people find that the test gives such a good, realistic job preview that—if they are not truly skilled enough for the job—they realize they simply are not cut out for this kind of work.

Do dispatchers get polygraphed? ›

This background process is critical to determining an applicant's qualifications for the position. Polygraph Examination: Applicants involved in the background process will be subjected to a thorough polygraph examination.

Skills Measured: The CritiCall Test assesses a wide range of skills, including data entry, multi-tasking, decision-making, map reading, and more. It's designed to mimic the real-world tasks you'll face in a dispatch role.

If you score 40 or below, your performance is considered “below average” when compared to other candidates who have taken the same test. If you score 60 or above, your performance is considered “above average” when compared to other candidates who have taken the same test.

Calls Can be Unpleasant

For this reason, a 911 dispatcher must be able to remain level-headed in crisis or when faced with angry or hostile situations. On the other hand, 911 dispatchers sometimes have to listen to distressing information that can be hard to cope with.

The Dispatcher test is considered a hard exam since it simulates the challenging tasks of actual 911 dispatchers. Also, since most candidates take the exam without any prior dispatch experience, they're often overwhelmed by its unique sections, such as multitasking, call summarization, and more.

Many 911 operator positions require candidates to achieve approximately 40 - 45 words per minute on a typing test with very high accuracy. You can practice for your typing test for free.