Estimate
Reading Time Calculator
Estimate reading time with a configurable words-per-minute speed.
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Last reviewed: 2026-11-09. Methodology: formulas use your inputs only — no hidden fees or market data APIs. Results are estimates for planning, not professional advice.
Basic
What it is & how to use it
Estimated reading time ≈ word count ÷ words-per-minute. Many publishers use ~200–250 WPM for silent reading.
How to use the Reading Time Calculator
1) Paste article text.
2) Set WPM if configurable.
3) Read estimated minutes.
4) Round up for UX on public posts.
Intermediate
Formula & worked example
Minutes = Words ÷ WPM (often round up).
Example: 900 words at 225 WPM ≈ 4 minutes.
Advanced
Interpretation, edge cases & next steps
Technical audiences may read slower; skimmers faster.
Advanced: exclude large code blocks from “prose” counts when estimating human reading; pair with word counter.
Frequently asked questions
What WPM should I use?
200–250 is a common publishing default — adjust with your data.
Code blocks?
Usually slower — consider excluding from marketing estimates.
Matches Medium?
Algorithms differ; treat as an estimate.
Unicode?
Yes.
Stored?
Text stays local to the session.
Deep guide
Read the full guide
Longer teaching, worked scenarios and mistakes — then jump back into this tool with example numbers.