About the Reading Time Calculator
Useful for planning reading assignments, timing a class presentation, or checking whether your speech fits a time limit.
How to use it
- Paste your text, or type a word count instead.
- Pick a reading speed.
- Read the reading time and the speaking time at 130 words per minute.
The formula
Time (minutes) = words ÷ words per minute
The 238 words per minute default comes from a 2019 review of reading studies, which found that figure for adults reading non-fiction silently.
Worked examples
A 1,500-word essay
At 238 wpm it takes about 6 min 18 sec to read. Spoken aloud at 130 wpm it takes about 11 min 32 sec.
Frequently asked questions
How many words is a 5-minute speech?
About 650 words at 130 words per minute.
What is a normal reading speed?
Most adults read non-fiction at 200 to 300 words per minute. Dense textbooks are slower.
Does it count headings?
Yes, every word in the pasted text counts.