Reading Time Calculator
Estimate how long text takes to read.
How this calculation works
The word count is divided by 238 words per minute, the measured average for adult silent reading of prose, to estimate the time.
What the results mean
- 238 wpm
- The average silent reading rate for adults. Skimming is faster; dense or technical text is slower.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the estimate?
It is a yardstick, not a promise. 238 wpm is a solid average, but individual pace varies widely and technical or unfamiliar material reads more slowly. Use it for relative comparison rather than an exact timer.