How the count works
A word is any run of characters separated by spaces or line breaks. Characters include letters, numbers, punctuation and spaces. Sentences are counted at periods, question marks and exclamation points.
Reading time assumes 238 words per minute, the average for adults reading silently in English. Speaking time assumes 150 words per minute, a comfortable pace for a speech or presentation.
Handy limits: a text message is 160 characters, a meta description about 155, and a double-spaced page holds around 250 to 300 words.
Word count reference
| Words | Reading time | Speaking time | Double-spaced pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250 | 1.1 min | 1.7 min | about 0.9 |
| 500 | 2.1 min | 3.3 min | about 1.8 |
| 750 | 3.2 min | 5.0 min | about 2.7 |
| 1,000 | 4.2 min | 6.7 min | about 3.6 |
| 1,500 | 6.3 min | 10.0 min | about 5.5 |
| 2,000 | 8.4 min | 13.3 min | about 7.3 |
| 3,000 | 12.6 min | 20.0 min | about 10.9 |
| 5,000 | 21.0 min | 33.3 min | about 18.2 |
Based on 238 words a minute for reading, 150 for speaking and about 275 words per double-spaced page in a 12-point font.
Frequently asked questions
How many words is a 5-minute speech?
About 750 words at a natural pace of 150 words per minute.
How many pages is 1,000 words?
Roughly 2 pages single-spaced or 4 pages double-spaced in a 12-point font.
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