Publishing estimator

Reading time calculator

Reading time estimates help writers set expectations for their audience and help editors evaluate content length.

Estimate reading time

Word counting and timing run on-device.

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Words

0

Minutes

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Seconds

Why this tool works well

  • Live updates while typing or pasting.
  • Custom WPM input for realistic estimates.
  • Quick summary for content planning workflows.
  • Add the reading time estimate to your blog post header or email newsletter to let readers decide whether to read now or save for later. Content with a visible reading time typically sees higher engagement.
  • For technical documentation, the reading time estimate helps identify sections that may be too long. If a single section takes more than five minutes to read, consider splitting it or adding a summary at the top.

Use cases

Editorial planning

Set article length targets before publishing.

UX tuning

Balance readability and depth in landing content.

SEO workflows

Estimate engagement timing for long-form pages.

Practical examples

Default pace

Input: 800 words at 200 WPM

Output: Around 4 minutes

Faster pace

Input: 800 words at 300 WPM

Output: Around 2 minutes 40 seconds

Suggested workflow

FAQ

Can I adjust reading speed?

Yes, set your own WPM value between 1 and 400.

Does this store my text?

No, text stays in your browser.

Is 230 words per minute an accurate reading speed?

It is a widely-used average for adult readers of general content. Technical or highly specialised content is typically read at 150-180 words per minute. Narrative fiction can be read faster. Use the estimate as a guide, not a precise measurement.

Does the calculator account for images or embedded media?

No. The calculation is based on word count only. A common convention is to add 10-12 seconds per image when estimating total content consumption time for media-heavy posts.

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