Reading Time Calculator
Estimate reading time for any text or word count. Enter words or paste text directly. Shows time for average, slow and fast readers. Great for writers, teachers and bloggers.
How to use
Average reading speeds
Research shows the average adult reads 200–250 words per minute of prose. Technical content, textbooks and poetry are typically read at 100–150 wpm. Quick news articles: 250–300 wpm.
Why reading time matters
Blog posts displaying reading time see 10–40% higher scroll depth. Medium, Substack and most major publications show estimated reading time because readers who know the commitment are more likely to start — and finish.
The fastest verified reading speed with genuine comprehension is around 1,000 wpm — roughly 4× the average. Most 'speed reading' courses that claim 10,000+ wpm are measuring skimming, not reading.