Reading Time Calculator

Free reading time and speaking time calculator

This calculator estimates how long it takes to read, say aloud, type or write out a text by hand. Paste your text, or just enter a word count if you do not have the text yet, and see the time for each activity at once.

Reading time is the word count divided by a words-per-minute speed. The defaults are commonly cited averages: about 238 words per minute for silent reading of non-fiction, 150 for speaking, 40 for typing and 13 for handwriting. Everyone is different, so every speed can be changed to match your own pace.

How to use it

1. Paste your text into the box, or type a word count in the field underneath.
2. Check the reading and speaking times at the top of the page.
3. Adjust the words-per-minute figures in the table to match your own speed.
4. Use the result for your "min read" label, your talk timing or your study plan.

Common uses

• Bloggers add a "5 min read" label to posts and newsletters.
• Speakers fit a talk or toast into its time slot.
• Video and podcast creators time a script before recording.
• Students plan how long a reading assignment will take.
• Teachers choose texts that fit a lesson.

Tips

• For speeches, add 10 to 20 percent for pauses, slides and audience reactions.
• Dense technical or academic text is read more slowly, so lower the reading speed.
• Time yourself once on a short passage and enter your own words-per-minute.

Frequently asked questions

How is reading time calculated?

The word count is divided by the reading speed in words per minute, then shown in minutes and seconds. At the default 238 words per minute, a 1,000-word article takes about four minutes and twelve seconds.

What speed should I use for a speech or presentation?

Around 150 words per minute is a common speaking pace. Slower, around 120, suits formal or technical talks, while casual talks run faster. Allow extra time for pauses.

Why does my actual reading time differ?

Reading speed varies with the text, your familiarity with the topic and your language skills. Change the speed in the table and the times update straight away.

Does it count images, code or tables?

No. Only the words you paste or the word count you enter are used, so add extra time yourself for images, code or tables.

Privacy

Everything runs locally in your browser. Your text is never uploaded, stored or shared, and you can use the tool offline once the page has loaded.

Related tools: Word Counter · Words Per Page Calculator · Sentence Counter · Edit Counter