Reading Speed Test
Find out how many words per minute you read — in under two minutes, no sign-up. Read the passage below at your natural pace (no skimming: read it the way you'd read a book you're enjoying), press done, and get your WPM plus what it means for your next book.
The passage is 262 words — about a page and a half of a typical paperback.
The timer starts the moment the text appears.
About reading speed: quick answers
What is the average reading speed?
Most adults read between 200 and 250 words per minute silently. College-educated readers often land between 250 and 300, and trained speed readers can exceed 400–500 WPM — though comprehension usually declines at the top end.
Is a higher WPM always better?
No. Speed is only half the equation — comprehension is the other half. Slowing down for dense, technical, or beautiful writing is the mark of a skilled reader, not a slow one. Use your WPM for planning, not as a score to maximize.
How accurate is this test?
It measures your pace on one medium-difficulty passage, so treat it as a solid baseline rather than a precise instrument. Your real-world speed varies with the book: expect faster on page-turners, slower on non-fiction. Retake it a couple of times and average the results.
How can I read faster without losing comprehension?
The biggest gains come from reading more, not from techniques: vocabulary and familiarity do the heavy lifting. Beyond that, minimizing distraction and daily practice help. A consistent daily reading habit raises most people's comfortable pace within a few months. Our guide to reading faster covers what works and what's just marketing. Now that you know your WPM, you can also compare it against audiobook speed to see which format finishes a book first.