Word Counter
Count words, characters, and reading time.
About this tool
The Word Counter counts words, characters, sentences, paragraphs, and estimated reading time as you type or paste text. It's useful for meeting essay word limits, social post character requirements, and gauging article length.
How it works
- Paste or type your text into the editor.
- The counters update in real time - no button press needed.
- Check the word count, character count (with and without spaces), and reading time.
- Delete or add text until you hit your target.
Example use cases
- University essay: Paste your 2,500-word essay draft to confirm it meets the minimum word requirement and see how many words you need to add or trim.
- Blog post length check: Check that a blog article is between 1,200-1,500 words - the sweet spot for SEO and reader engagement.
Frequently asked questions
Does it count hyphenated words as one or two words?
Hyphenated words like 'well-being' are counted as one word, consistent with most style guides.
Is there a maximum text length?
No - the word counter handles any length of text your browser can hold. Very large pastes (100,000+ words) may cause a brief delay.