How the reading time calculator works
Last updated 10 November 2026
A reading time helps readers decide whether to start, and helps writers keep to a length.
How it works
- Reading time = number of words ÷ words per minute.
Why show a reading time
A reading time tells people up front whether they can read a piece now or should save it for later. It also helps writers keep to a length: a speech, a newsletter or a blog post. Paste your text, pick a reading speed and see the time in minutes and seconds.
How it is worked out
Reading time is the number of words divided by the words read per minute. The speed box lets you change the pace. A lower speed suits careful reading of complex text. A higher speed suits light reading. There is no single right number, which is why the setting is yours to change.
Reading versus speaking
Speaking is slower than silent reading. If you are timing a speech or a presentation, choose a slower speed than you would for reading to yourself, and leave extra time for pauses, slides and questions. Practise out loud once to check.
Things that change the real time
- Tables, figures and code take longer to read than plain text.
- Difficult subjects slow most readers down.
- Reading on a small screen is slower for many people.
- Readers who skim will finish much sooner than the figure shown.
Related tools
Count words with the word counter and sentences with the sentence counter. Your text stays in your browser and is not stored.
Setting a sensible speed
The reading speed starts at a typical figure for adults, and you can change it. Slow it down for dense or technical text, and speed it up for light reading. Whatever number you pick is an assumption, so treat the time as a guide and not a promise.
Things to watch
- People read at very different speeds, so treat the time as a rough guide.
Everything runs in your browser. Your text never leaves your device.
Like every tool on MoneyMzansi, this one runs entirely in your browser. There is no account, no upload and no sign-up, so it keeps working even if your connection drops once the page has loaded.