How is word count calculated?

Words are counted by splitting the text on whitespace (spaces, tabs, and line breaks) and filtering out empty segments. This matches the method used by most word processors including Microsoft Word and Google Docs. Hyphenated words like "well-known" count as one word. Contractions like "don't" also count as one word.

How is reading time estimated?

Reading time is estimated based on an average adult reading speed of approximately 200–250 words per minute — the typical speed for general comprehension reading. For dense technical or academic content, actual reading time may be longer. For skimming, it will be shorter. The estimate is a useful guideline for knowing whether your content fits the intended reading context.

Does it count characters with or without spaces?

Both — the tool shows character count with spaces and character count without spaces. Character count with spaces is relevant for Twitter/X character limits (280 characters) and SMS message limits. Character count without spaces is sometimes required for academic word processors or technical specifications. Both counts update in real time as you type.

Can I paste formatted text?

Yes — you can paste text from Word documents, Google Docs, PDFs, or web pages. The tool strips HTML and formatting, counting only the visible text content. Rich formatting like bold, italics, and links is ignored — only the underlying text characters and words are counted. Line breaks and paragraph breaks are preserved in the paragraph count.

Word Counter — Free Online Word & Character Counter

Free Online Word Counter

Count words, characters, sentences, and paragraphs in your text instantly — no word processor needed. Our free online word counter gives you a real-time breakdown of your writing as you type or paste content, making it indispensable for students, writers, bloggers, journalists, and content creators. See word count, character count (with and without spaces), sentence count, paragraph count, and an estimated reading time based on the average adult reading speed of 200 words per minute. The word counter is perfect for checking essay length, staying within social media character limits, meeting content brief requirements, and verifying article word counts before submission. Works with any language and any content — blog posts, academic papers, emails, social media posts, cover letters, and more. Everything happens in your browser; your text is never sent to any server.

How to Use

Type or paste your text into the text area above.
Word, character, sentence, and paragraph counts update instantly as you type.
Check the reading time and speaking time estimates below the stats.
Click "Clear" to reset and start with new text.

FAQ

How is word count calculated?: Words are counted by splitting the text on whitespace (spaces, tabs, and line breaks) and filtering out empty segments. This matches the method used by most word processors including Microsoft Word and Google Docs. Hyphenated words like "well-known" count as one word. Contractions like "don't" also count as one word.
How is reading time estimated?: Reading time is estimated based on an average adult reading speed of approximately 200–250 words per minute — the typical speed for general comprehension reading. For dense technical or academic content, actual reading time may be longer. For skimming, it will be shorter. The estimate is a useful guideline for knowing whether your content fits the intended reading context.
Does it count characters with or without spaces?: Both — the tool shows character count with spaces and character count without spaces. Character count with spaces is relevant for Twitter/X character limits (280 characters) and SMS message limits. Character count without spaces is sometimes required for academic word processors or technical specifications. Both counts update in real time as you type.
Can I paste formatted text?: Yes — you can paste text from Word documents, Google Docs, PDFs, or web pages. The tool strips HTML and formatting, counting only the visible text content. Rich formatting like bold, italics, and links is ignored — only the underlying text characters and words are counted. Line breaks and paragraph breaks are preserved in the paragraph count.