Reading Time Calculator

Q: How do I calculate reading time manually?

Divide the total number of words by your desired WPM (Words Per Minute). For example, a 1,000-word essay read at 200 WPM would take 5 minutes.

Q: Is this calculator accurate for public speaking?

Yes. By lowering the WPM setting to approximately 130-150, the calculator provides an accurate estimate for speeches, accounting for natural pauses and clarity.

Most digital writers and content creators use these timing estimates to refine their delivery. In public speaking, podcasting, and video production, you can create perfectly timed presentations without the guesswork. When writing a story or film script you can estimate how long the text will take the reader to read.

Our free online Reading Time Calculator works for film scripts, stories, blog posts, public speaking talks, audiobooks, radio spots or corporate presentations. Set the correct WPM (Words Per Minute) values for either silent reading or speaking out loud. You can get a more accurate estimate of a speech or article’s duration by using our customizable reading speed settings.

Reading Time Calculator

Analyze your text to understand reading time for silent reading and spoken narration. Perfect for writers, screenwriters, and content creators.

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Reading Time Estimates

Silent Reading

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Read Aloud

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Adjust Reading Speeds

Silent Reading Speed 200 WPM

Read Aloud Speed 150 WPM

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What is a Reading Time Calculator?

A Reading Time Calculator is a digital utility designed to estimate how long it will take to read a specific piece of text based on the total word count and reading speed.

By adjusting the Words Per Minute (WPM), users can calculate the difference between silent reading, which is typically faster, and reading out loud, which requires a slower pace for clarity and emphasis. It is an essential tool for creators who need to ensure their written content fits into a specific time slot, such as a 30-second commercial or a 10-minute keynote.

FAQ

How many words per minute is a normal reading speed?

The average silent reading speed for adults is typically between 200 and 250 words per minute (WPM). However, for speeches and presentations, a slower pace of 130 to 150 WPM is recommended to ensure the audience can follow along easily.

How do I calculate reading time manually?

To find the estimated time, divide the total number of words by your desired WPM. For example, a 1,000-word essay read at 200 WPM would take exactly 5 minutes. Our tool automates this for you instantly.

Is this calculator accurate for public speaking?

Yes. By lowering the WPM setting to approximately 140, our calculator provides a highly accurate estimate for public speakers, allowing for natural pauses, breathing, and audience engagement.

Does word complexity affect the reading time?

While our tool uses word count as the primary metric, highly technical or academic text may take longer to read. We recommend slightly lowering your WPM for complex scripts to account for the reader's or audience's processing time.