When breaking news hits, New York Times journalists don't just race to get the story—they race to type it. The newsroom recently tested typing speeds of about 80 reporters and editors, revealing a wide range from 35 to 134 words per minute. The average newsroom speed hit around 80 words per minute, double the national average.

Data journalists proved the fastest typists, with Upshot section members averaging 99 words per minute. The Express desk, which handles breaking news, also performed strongly—one editor typed 124 words per minute. Graphics editor Madison Dong, typing at 111 words per minute, described writing on her laptop as "stream-of-consciousness."

While some reporters type slowly—chief legal affairs correspondent Adam Liptak manages just 35 words per minute—most journalists rely on speed for their work. Data reporter Francesca Paris transcribes interviews in real time, while others like Maggie Astor use their typing skills for live coverage of events from campaign speeches to Olympic gymnastics. The findings reveal how typing proficiency varies by generation, with baby boomers often learning in high school versus millennials and Gen Z who picked it up earlier or later in life.