Reading Time Calculator

Estimate how long it will take to read your text, article, or document.

Paste your text here

Manual Word Count

Reading Speed

Estimated Reading Time

0 min 0 sec

Words

Characters

Sentences

Paragraphs

Audio Narration Time (at 130 wpm): 0 min 0 sec

Reading Time (minutes) = Total Words / Reading Speed (WPM)

Worked Examples

Example 1: Short Article
Word count: 500 words
Speed: Average (250 wpm)
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Example 2: Long Essay
Word count: 2,000 words
Speed: Fast (400 wpm)
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Example 3: Audio Narration
Word count: 1,300 words
Speed: Speech rate (130 wpm)
Audio Time: 10 minutes

1. What is the average reading speed?

The average adult reads at a speed of about 200 to 250 words per minute (WPM).
2. Why does reading on a screen take longer?

Studies show that reading on digital screens can be about 25% slower than reading on paper due to screen glare, distractions, and scrolling.
3. How is audio narration time calculated?

Audiobook narrators and podcasters typically speak at a deliberate pace of around 130 to 150 words per minute to ensure clarity.
4. How are words counted?

The tool separates the text by spaces. Punctuation attached to words is ignored in the word count, but counted in the character count.
5. Does this tool store my text?

No, all calculations are performed locally in your browser. Your text is never sent to any server.