How to use the Reading Time Calculator
- Paste your text.
- Choose a reading speed, or enter your own words per minute.
- See reading time and speaking time instantly.
- Use the result for blog “min read” labels or speech planning.
Example
| Input | A 1,200-word blog post |
|---|---|
| Result | ≈ 5 min read · ≈ 9 min 14 sec to speak |
How reading time is calculated
Reading time is the word count divided by a reading speed in words per minute (wpm). By default the calculator uses 238 wpm, a commonly cited average for adults reading silently in English. Speaking time divides the same word count by a speaking speed. The default is 130 wpm, a comfortable presentation pace.
Choose a reading or speaking speed
- Reading speed: Slow (150 wpm), Relaxed (200), Average (238), Fast (300), Skimming (400) or a custom value from 50 to 1,500.
- Speaking speed: Slow (100 wpm), Presentation (130) or Conversational (160).
- Or enter a word count: type a number instead of pasting text to estimate the time for a planned length, such as a 1,500-word article or a 10-minute talk.
The results show reading time, speaking time, the word count and a ready-made “min read” label, which is the reading time rounded to whole minutes with a minimum of 1.
Where it is useful
- Adding a “5 min read” label to blog posts and newsletters.
- Timing a speech, a podcast script, a video voice-over or a presentation.
- Planning how much text fits into a slot, such as a 3-minute pitch (about 400 words at 130 wpm).
- Estimating study time for an article or chapter.
Things that change the real time
- Difficult or technical text is read more slowly than a simple story.
- Tables, code and lists take longer than the word count suggests, and images add time too.
- People who speak with pauses, slides or questions need more time than the raw speaking estimate.
- Treat the result as a guide and rehearse out loud for anything important.
Related tools
For full word and character counts, use the Word Counter. To see how easy your writing is to read, try the Readability Checker, and to turn a word count into pages, use the Words to Pages Calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What reading speed should I use?
Research puts the average adult silent reading speed for non-fiction at about 238 words per minute. Speeches are typically delivered at 120–150 words per minute.
Can I calculate reading time from a word count?
Yes. Enter your word count in the “Or enter a word count” field instead of pasting text.
Why is my time different from other calculators?
Calculators use different speeds. This one uses 238 wpm for reading and 130 wpm for speaking by default, and you can change both to match your audience.
Does it count images?
No. It works from words only, so add a little time yourself for images, charts and videos.