Reading Speed Calculator

Test your reading speed and get your WPM. See how long it takes you to read books, articles, and textbooks. Get tips to improve reading speed.

Reading Speed Test

Click "Start Reading" to reveal a 262-word passage. Read it at your natural pace, then click "Done Reading" when finished.

Text will appear here when you start

Or enter your known reading speed (WPM)

WPM

Tips to Improve Your Reading Speed

Minimize Subvocalization

Reduce the habit of pronouncing words in your head. Your eyes can process words faster than you can speak them.

Use a Pointer

Guide your eyes with a finger or pen along the text. This reduces regression (re-reading) and keeps a steady pace.

Expand Peripheral Vision

Train yourself to read groups of words at once instead of one word at a time. Start by reading 2-3 words per fixation.

Reduce Regression

Avoid going back to re-read sentences. Trust your brain to fill in understanding as you continue reading forward.

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, reading speed improves with consistent practice. Set aside 15-20 minutes daily for focused reading.

Choose the Right Environment

Read in a well-lit, quiet space. Minimize distractions and position your reading material at a comfortable angle.

Reading Speed Categories

Slow

<150 WPM

Below Avg

150-200 WPM

Average

200-250 WPM

Above Avg

250-350 WPM

Fast

350-500 WPM

Speed

500+ WPM

Click "Start Reading" above to take the reading speed test, or enter your known WPM to see reading time estimates.

About This Test

Test Passage: The sample text contains 262 words of moderate complexity, covering a mix of narrative and informational content to provide a realistic reading experience.

Average Adults: Most adults read between 200-250 words per minute. College students typically read at 200-300 WPM. Speed readers can exceed 500-1000+ WPM.

Note: Reading speed varies significantly based on material complexity, familiarity with the subject, and purpose (skimming vs. deep reading). This test measures comfortable reading pace.

How to Use Reading Speed Calculator

1Click Start to begin the reading test
2Read the displayed passage naturally
3Click Done when finished
4View your WPM and reading time estimates

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good reading speed?▾

The average adult reads 200-250 words per minute. Above-average readers reach 300-350 WPM, while speed readers can exceed 500 WPM.

How can I read faster?▾

Reduce subvocalization, use a pointer to guide your eyes, expand your peripheral vision, minimize re-reading, and practice with progressively faster material.

Does reading faster reduce comprehension?▾

At moderate speed increases, comprehension stays high. Very fast reading (1000+ WPM claims) typically sacrifices comprehension significantly. Aim for the speed that maintains 80%+ comprehension.

About Reading Speed Calculator

Test your reading speed and get your WPM. See how long it takes you to read books, articles, and textbooks. Get tips to improve reading speed.

NexTool's Reading Speed Calculator is completely free to use with no sign-up required. Your data is processed directly in your browser and never sent to our servers, ensuring complete privacy and instant results.