Post job

Word processor vs typist

The differences between word processors and typists can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 6-12 months to become both a word processor and a typist. Additionally, a word processor has an average salary of $39,454, which is higher than the $32,143 average annual salary of a typist.

The top three skills for a word processor include powerpoint, data entry and proofreading. The most important skills for a typist are data entry, WPM, and real estate.

Word processor vs typist overview

Word ProcessorTypist
Yearly salary$39,454$32,143
Hourly rate$18.97$15.45
Growth rate-8%-5%
Number of jobs7,99534,028
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 38%Bachelor's Degree, 30%
Average age5050
Years of experience1212

What does a word processor do?

A word processor is responsible for setting up and preparing mailing labels, letters, reports, and other materials using word processing software and a keyboard. They use word processing commands to create documents needed for company operations. They are also expected to perform some clerical duties in and around the office, like answering telephone calls and copying documents.

What does a typist do?

A typist is responsible for typing all of a company's documents and materials, including reports, policies, and correspondence. A typist may also be known as a word processor or copy clerk. They are a professional who may work for companies or individuals. Their job responsibilities may include typing up letters, filling out forms, creating transcriptions of audio recordings, or organizing documents. They may also have to answer phones.

Word processor vs typist salary

Word processors and typists have different pay scales, as shown below.

Word ProcessorTypist
Average salary$39,454$32,143
Salary rangeBetween $26,000 And $58,000Between $21,000 And $48,000
Highest paying CitySan Francisco, CASan Francisco, CA
Highest paying stateCaliforniaCalifornia
Best paying companyKent Daniels & AssociatesErie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES
Best paying industryProfessionalGovernment

Differences between word processor and typist education

There are a few differences between a word processor and a typist in terms of educational background:

Word ProcessorTypist
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 38%Bachelor's Degree, 30%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common college--

Word processor vs typist demographics

Here are the differences between word processors' and typists' demographics:

Word ProcessorTypist
Average age5050
Gender ratioMale, 13.6% Female, 86.4%Male, 11.2% Female, 88.8%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 6.7% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 10.7% Asian, 4.7% White, 72.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%Black or African American, 6.7% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 10.7% Asian, 4.7% White, 72.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%
LGBT Percentage7%7%

Differences between word processor and typist duties and responsibilities

Word processor example responsibilities.

  • Create and update Microsoft VISIO graphs.
  • Complete document in SPD drive the same day as payroll.
  • Train all desktop publishers on new style sheets for various college examinations.
  • Prepare pleadings, briefs, opinions for filing and trial via transcription.
  • Edit and proofread authors and desktop publisher's manuscripts ahead of the editing department.
  • Process work orders utilizing WordPerfect software, transcribe from Dictaphone system, answer phones and sort mail.
  • Show more

Typist example responsibilities.

  • Process and obtain DoD secret level clearance.
  • Complete HTML coding for online versions of books and newsletters.
  • Assist in providing telephone help desk support to troubleshoot application questions.
  • Update title work from mark up commitment prepare by the escrow closers.
  • Type, copy, assemble and distribute policies to escrow officers and clients.
  • Type policies, endorsements, amendments and other miscellaneous materials for insure and their agents.
  • Show more

Word processor vs typist skills

Common word processor skills
  • PowerPoint, 15%
  • Data Entry, 14%
  • Proofreading, 10%
  • Law Firm, 5%
  • Financial Statements, 5%
  • Word Processing Equipment, 4%
Common typist skills
  • Data Entry, 19%
  • WPM, 13%
  • Real Estate, 8%
  • Telephone Calls, 8%
  • Computer Database, 6%
  • Escrow, 5%

Browse office and administrative jobs