Reading Speed Calculator
Measure your reading speed in WPM. Test how fast you read and calculate time to finish any book.
Click Start, read the passage below, then click Stop when done.
Reading Time Estimator
About this calculator
Time yourself reading a passage with the Start and Stop buttons and get your words-per-minute score. A second tool estimates how long any text or book will take at your speed.
Enter the word count of what you want to read and your speed, and press Estimate Reading Time.
How to use it
- Press ▶ Start, read the passage and press ⏹ Stop.
- Read your WPM.
- Enter a word count and press Estimate Reading Time.
Formula
WPM = words ÷ minutes. Reading time = words ÷ WPM.
Worked example
Examples
| 250 words in 1 minute | 250 wpm |
| 60,000-word novel at 250 wpm | 4 hours |
| 800-word article at 250 wpm | 3.2 minutes |
Tips and common mistakes
- Use the average of three tests.
- A calm environment gives a truer score.
- Reading on screens is slightly slower than print.
- Do not skim during the test.
- Track speed monthly.
Frequently asked questions
How do I test my reading speed?
Time yourself reading a passage and divide words by minutes.
What is average WPM?
About 238.
How long is a novel?
Typically 70,000 to 100,000 words.
Does speed vary by language?
Yes.
Can I enter my own speed?
Yes.
What affects reading speed?
Familiarity, text difficulty, font and fatigue.