Word Counter: Words, Sentences, Paragraphs and Reading Time

Paste or type your text and see the word count straight away, along with characters, sentences, paragraphs, how long it takes to read or speak and the words you use most. Your text stays in your browser.

FreeNo sign-upRuns in your browserUpdated 2 Nov 2026
Your resultLive

Estimates only. Check important results before you rely on them.

More Technology & Digital Tools calculators

View all 10
Internet Speed CalculatorDownload Time CalculatorData Storage ConverterBinary to Decimal ConverterDecimal to Binary ConverterImage Size CalculatorVideo File Size CalculatorPassword Strength CheckerCharacter Counter

You may also need

From related categories
Unit ConverterEverydayScientific CalculatorMathPercentage CalculatorMathBirthday CountdownEverydayGST CalculatorBusiness & GSTFraction CalculatorMath

How to use this calculator

  1. Type or paste your text in the box.
  2. Read the word count at the top.
  3. Check characters, sentences, paragraphs and reading time.
  4. Look at the most used words to spot repetition.

The formula

Words are runs of letters and digits separated by spaces or punctuation. Reading time = Words ÷ 200 per minute. Speaking time = Words ÷ 130 per minute. Sentences end with a full stop, question mark or exclamation mark.

Worked example

The sample text has 21 words in 3 sentences and 2 paragraphs. At 200 words per minute it takes under a minute to read. The most used words are "brown" and "words", each used twice.

Understanding your result

Hyphenated words and words with apostrophes count as one word. Reading speed varies by reader, so treat the time as a guide. The most-used list skips short and common words.

When to use it

  • Check an essay, article or assignment limit.
  • Time a speech or presentation.
  • Spot overused words in your writing.

Assumptions and limits

Your text is processed in your browser only and is never added to the page address. Counts follow common rules and may differ slightly from word processors.

Frequently asked questions

How do I count words in a text?

Paste it in the box. The count updates as you type.

How is reading time estimated?

By dividing the word count by an average reading speed of 200 words per minute.

Does it count hyphenated words as one?

Yes. "well-known" counts as one word.

Is my text saved or sent anywhere?

No. It stays in your browser.

Why does my word processor show a different count?

Different tools treat hyphens, numbers and symbols differently.