Writing
Reading Time Calculator
Estimate how long a text takes to read from its word count and reading speed.
Reading Time
β
How It Works
Reading Time = Word Count Γ· Words per Minute. The average adult silently reads non-fiction at about 238 wpm; skimming is 400+; careful technical reading can drop below 150.
Example
A 1,500-word article at 238 wpm takes about 6.3 minutes to read.
Frequently Asked Questions
What reading speed should I use?
238 wpm is the research-backed adult average for non-fiction. Use ~260 for fiction, 150β200 for technical material, and 400+ for skimming.
How do bloggers use reading time?
Displaying β6 min readβ sets expectations and increases engagement. Most platforms compute it exactly this way.
How long does a 100,000-word book take?
At 238 wpm, about 7 hours of continuous reading.