Word Counter

Count words, characters, sentences and paragraphs and estimate reading time.

Words0
Characters0
Without spaces0
Sentences0
Paragraphs0
Reading time0 sec
Speaking time0 sec

How to use the word counter

Type in the box or paste text from a document, email or web page. The counts update instantly with every keystroke, so you can trim or extend your writing until it fits a limit. Nothing needs to be submitted and there is no length cap beyond what your device can handle.

What each figure means

  • Words: groups of characters separated by whitespace.
  • Characters: every letter, digit, symbol, space and line break. Emoji and accented letters count as one character each.
  • Sentences: stretches of text ending in a full stop, question mark or exclamation mark. Abbreviations such as “e.g.” can add to this count.
  • Paragraphs: blocks of text separated by line breaks.
  • Reading and speaking time: estimates at 238 and 150 words per minute.

Common length limits

A meta description is best kept under about 160 characters and a page title under 60. A single SMS holds 160 characters in the standard alphabet. A five-minute speech is roughly 750 words, and a double-spaced typed page holds around 250 to 300 words.

Frequently asked questions

How are words counted?

A word is any run of characters separated by spaces, tabs or line breaks. Hyphenated terms such as “well-known” and contractions such as “don’t” count as one word, which matches how most word processors count.

Do spaces count as characters?

Both figures are shown. “Characters” includes spaces and line breaks, which is what most social networks and SMS limits use. “Without spaces” excludes all whitespace.

How is reading time calculated?

Reading time assumes 238 words per minute, the average silent reading speed for adults reading English non-fiction. Speaking time assumes 150 words per minute, a comfortable presentation pace.

Is my text saved or uploaded?

No. Counting happens in your browser as you type. The text is never sent to a server and disappears when you close or refresh the page.

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