How is a word counted?

A word is any run of characters separated by spaces or line breaks, which is the same way a typical document counts them. Punctuation attached to a word, like a comma or full stop, does not start a new word, so the total matches what you would expect from a word processor.

How is reading time worked out?

Reading time is estimated from the word count using an average adult reading speed of around 200 to 250 words a minute. It is a guide rather than a stopwatch: a dense technical passage reads slower, a light list reads faster, but it gives a useful sense of how long a piece takes.

Does it count as I type?

Yes. The numbers update live with every keystroke and every paste, so you never have to press a button to recount. Edit freely and the totals follow along.

Is there a length limit?

There is no limit we impose. Because the counting happens on your own device rather than on a server, you can paste a whole chapter or a long report and it still counts instantly.

Is my text sent to a server?

No. Everything runs locally in your browser. Your text is read and processed on your own device, nothing is uploaded, and nothing is logged or stored. Once the page has loaded, it keeps working even if you go offline.

Word Counter

Paste or type your text and watch the word count update as you go, along with characters, sentences, paragraphs and an estimated reading time. A free word counter for essays, articles, posts and anything with a length target.

No sign-up, ever
100% free
Nothing uploaded
Works offline after first load
No limits, no email wall

Read the guide: How to Count Words Online

Live count

Words

Characters

Sentences

Paragraphs

0 min

Reading time

How to use it

1
Paste your text

Type directly or paste from a doc, email or browser. The count updates with every keystroke.
2
Read the numbers

See words, characters, sentences, paragraphs and reading time side by side, always current.
3
Edit to your target

Trim or expand until you hit the word count an assignment, brief or platform asks for.

When it comes in handy

Essays and assignments

Hit a "1,500 word" requirement without guessing, and keep an eye on the count as you draft.

Articles and posts

Match an editor or platform word target, and use reading time to gauge how long a piece feels.

Applications

Stay inside the word limit on a cover letter, personal statement or grant box.

Instant & 100% private — nothing is uploaded

Every keystroke is handled right here in your browser. Your text is never sent to a server, so there is no sign-up, no email wall, and no length cap from us. Load the page once and it keeps working even if you go offline.

Frequently asked questions

How is a word counted?: A word is any run of characters separated by spaces or line breaks, which is the same way a typical document counts them. Punctuation attached to a word, like a comma or full stop, does not start a new word, so the total matches what you would expect from a word processor.
How is reading time worked out?: Reading time is estimated from the word count using an average adult reading speed of around 200 to 250 words a minute. It is a guide rather than a stopwatch: a dense technical passage reads slower, a light list reads faster, but it gives a useful sense of how long a piece takes.
Does it count as I type?: Yes. The numbers update live with every keystroke and every paste, so you never have to press a button to recount. Edit freely and the totals follow along.
Is there a length limit?: There is no limit we impose. Because the counting happens on your own device rather than on a server, you can paste a whole chapter or a long report and it still counts instantly.
Is my text sent to a server?: No. Everything runs locally in your browser. Your text is read and processed on your own device, nothing is uploaded, and nothing is logged or stored. Once the page has loaded, it keeps working even if you go offline.