Reading Speed Test

Measure your reading speed in WPM with comprehension check. Choose a passage or paste your own.

WPM tracker | Comprehension check

Choose a Passage

words — note: custom passages don't have comprehension questions.

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Comprehension Check

Answer 3 questions to confirm you read the passage — this ensures your WPM is accurate.

Your Reading Results

ADJ. WPM

Raw WPM:  ·  Adjusted for comprehension score

Raw WPM
words / min
Time Taken
min : sec
Comprehension
questions correct
Adj. WPM
comprehension-weighted

Answer Review

Personal Best: — 🎉 New record!

How the Reading Speed Test Works

Four steps to your accurate WPM — comprehension included

1. Choose a Passage

Pick one of four passages on different topics, or paste your own custom text.

2. Read Naturally

Click "Start Reading" — the timer begins. Read at your natural pace, then click "Done".

3. Answer Questions

Answer 3 multiple-choice questions to verify comprehension and prevent skimming.

4. See Your WPM

Get your raw WPM, comprehension score, adjusted WPM, speed category, and personal best.

Reading Speed Benchmarks

How does your WPM compare to the average reader?

< 150
Slow
Below average
150–250
Average
Most adults
250–350
Good
Above average
350–500
Fast
Avid readers
500+
Speed Reader
Trained readers

Frequently Asked Questions

The average adult reads 200–250 words per minute (WPM) for non-fiction. Fiction readers average 300 WPM. Speed readers can reach 400–700 WPM, though comprehension often decreases at very high speeds.
Without comprehension checks, you could skim the text and get an inflated WPM. Our test includes 3 questions about the passage to ensure you actually read and understood it.
Avoid subvocalizing (saying words in your head), use a finger or pointer to guide your eyes, practice reading in chunks of words rather than one word at a time, and read regularly to build vocabulary.
Speed reading is a set of techniques aimed at increasing reading rate while maintaining comprehension. Common techniques include chunking (reading groups of words), minimizing regression (re-reading), and reducing subvocalization.
Yes. Beyond a certain point, increasing reading speed reduces comprehension. Studies suggest that very high WPM speeds (over 600) come with significant comprehension loss. The goal should be the fastest speed where you retain full understanding.