Average Reading Speed: Words Per Minute Explained
Blog / READING
Most adults read about 200–250 words per minute when reading silently for understanding. Reading aloud is slower, roughly 130–150 words per minute.
How reading time is calculated
Reading time = word count ÷ words per minute. A 1,500-word article at 238 words per minute takes a little over 6 minutes.
What affects speed
Difficult vocabulary, technical topics, small text and screens with distractions all slow reading.
Showing reading time
Many blogs show an estimated read time at the top. It helps readers decide whether to start now or save it.
Frequently asked questions
Is 300 words per minute good?
It is faster than average while still allowing good comprehension for many readers.