Reading Speed Test
Test your reading speed in words per minute (WPM). Includes comprehension check.
Click Start to begin reading. Read the passage as fast as you comfortably can.
About this calculator
Click Start, read the passage at your normal pace, and click Done. You get your words per minute, followed by a short comprehension check so the score reflects understanding, not just skimming.
Compare your score with the benchmarks: below 200 is slow, 200 to 300 average, above 400 fast.
How to use it
- Press Start Reading.
- Read the passage once at your natural speed.
- Press Done Reading and answer the questions.
Scoring
WPM = words in passage ÷ reading time in minutes. The comprehension score is the share of questions answered correctly. A useful figure is effective WPM, WPM × comprehension.
Worked example
Example
| 300-word passage in 75 seconds | 240 wpm |
| Comprehension 4 of 5 | 80% |
| Effective speed | 192 wpm |
Tips and common mistakes
- Read once, naturally.
- Do not go back to re-read.
- Try different passages.
- Higher speed is not better if comprehension drops.
- Take the test when alert.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal reading speed?
About 200 to 300 wpm.
What is effective reading speed?
Speed multiplied by comprehension.
Can I take the test more than once?
Yes.
How long is the passage?
A few hundred words.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes.
Is it free?
Yes.