APM

Term from Esports industry explained for recruiters

APM (Actions Per Minute) is a key measure of how quickly a player can perform actions in competitive video games, especially in fast-paced games like StarCraft or DOTA 2. Think of it like measuring how many keystrokes and mouse clicks a player can make per minute while maintaining strategic gameplay. It's similar to words-per-minute typing speed, but for gaming. High APM is particularly valued in competitive gaming roles because it shows a player's mechanical skill and ability to multitask effectively.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained consistent APM of 300+ in professional StarCraft II tournaments

Coached junior players to improve their APM and gameplay efficiency

Achieved top regional ranking with APM scores consistently in the top 1%

Typical job title: "Professional Gamers"

Also try searching for:

Pro Gamer Esports Athlete Competitive Gamer Gaming Coach Esports Professional Gaming Analyst Professional Gaming Player

Where to Find Professional Gamers

Example Interview Questions

Professional Level Questions

Q: How do you maintain high APM while ensuring strategic gameplay?

Expected Answer: A professional player should explain their practice routines, how they balance speed with accuracy, and methods for maintaining focus during long gaming sessions.

Q: How would you coach others to improve their APM?

Expected Answer: Should discuss training techniques, common mistakes to avoid, and how to gradually build up speed while maintaining game awareness and strategy.

Semi-Professional Level Questions

Q: What's your approach to improving APM in different game situations?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they adapt their actions based on different game phases and scenarios, and methods for practicing specific gameplay sequences.

Q: How do you balance APM with decision-making?

Expected Answer: Should discuss the relationship between mechanical skill and strategic thinking, and how they prioritize actions during intense gameplay.

Amateur Level Questions

Q: What is your current APM and how do you measure it?

Expected Answer: Should know their baseline APM, be familiar with common measurement tools, and understand basic techniques for improvement.

Q: How do you practice to increase your APM?

Expected Answer: Should describe their practice routine, warm-up exercises, and tools they use to track progress.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of APM measurement
  • Ability to maintain consistent APM above 150
  • Knowledge of common practice techniques
  • Basic gameplay mechanics

Mid (2-4 years)

  • Consistent APM above 200
  • Tournament experience
  • Ability to maintain APM under pressure
  • Advanced game knowledge

Senior (4+ years)

  • Professional tournament experience
  • APM consistently above 250
  • Coaching and mentoring ability
  • Advanced strategic understanding

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to maintain consistent APM during extended play
  • No tournament experience
  • Lack of understanding about the relationship between APM and strategy
  • No record of improvement over time