The average adult reads non-fiction at 238 words per minute (based on the Brysbaert 2019 meta-analysis of 190 studies), making a 1,000-word article approximately a 4.2-minute read. Fiction is slightly faster at 260 WPM, while reading aloud averages 183 WPM. To calculate reading time for any text, simply divide your word count by 238.

This guide explains reading time calculations in depth, including how reading speed varies by content type, age, and medium.

The Basic Reading Time Formula

Formula: Reading time (minutes) = Word count ÷ Reading speed (WPM)

Using the 238 WPM average (Brysbaert 2019):

• 500 words = 2.1 minutes
• 1,000 words = 4.2 minutes
• 2,000 words = 8.4 minutes
• 5,000 words = 21 minutes

Quick estimation: For mental math, use 250 WPM. Every 250 words equals roughly 1 minute of reading time.

Reading Time Reference Table

Optimal article length: 7-minute read time (approximately 1,855 words) generates the highest engagement according to Medium’s research.

Where Does 238 WPM Come From?

The 238 words per minute figure comes from the Brysbaert 2019 meta-analysis (Journal of Memory and Language), which analyzed 190 studies on reading speed:

Research findings (Brysbaert 2019):

• Non-fiction reading: 238 WPM average
• Fiction reading: 260 WPM average
• Reading aloud: 183 WPM average
• Technical content: ~75-150 WPM

Medium.com’s standard: Medium uses 265 WPM for their reading time calculations, plus 12 seconds for the first image (decreasing for subsequent images).

Practical recommendation: Use 238 WPM for non-fiction content and 265 WPM if you want to match Medium’s algorithm.

Reading Speed by Content Type

Different types of content are read at dramatically different speeds:

Easy/Familiar Content (250-300 WPM)

Characteristics:

• Familiar vocabulary
• Simple sentence structure
• Entertainment-focused
• Light topics

Examples:

• Blog posts
• News articles
• Fiction novels
• Personal essays

Standard Content (200-250 WPM)

Characteristics:

• Mix of familiar and unfamiliar terms
• Moderate complexity
• Informational focus

Examples:

• Non-fiction books
• Business articles
• Educational content
• How-to guides

Complex Content (100-150 WPM)

Characteristics:

• Technical vocabulary
• Dense information
• Requires comprehension focus
• May require re-reading

Examples:

• Scientific papers
• Legal documents
• Technical manuals
• Academic textbooks

Highly Technical Content (50-100 WPM)

Characteristics:

• Specialized jargon
• Complex concepts
• Mathematical or code content
• Professional expertise required

Examples:

• Research papers in unfamiliar fields
• Programming documentation
• Advanced mathematics
• Medical literature

Reading Speed by Age

Reading speed develops throughout life:

Note: These are averages with significant individual variation.

Reading Speed by Medium

How we read also affects speed:

Screen reading:

• Typically 20-30% slower than paper
• Average: 175-200 WPM
• Eye fatigue affects speed over time
• Blue light and screen glare contribute

Print reading:

• Faster than screens for long-form
• Average: 230-250 WPM
• Physical book easiest on eyes
• Page turning creates micro-breaks

Mobile device reading:

• Slowest of digital formats
• Average: 150-180 WPM
• Small screen requires more eye movement
• Scrolling interrupts flow

Audiobooks/podcasts:

• Typically played at 150-160 WPM (narrator pace)
• Many listeners use 1.25x-2x speed
• Comprehension may decrease above 300 WPM playback

Why Display Reading Time on Your Content?

Benefits for Readers

Sets expectations: Readers can decide if they have time to commit before starting.

Reduces bounce rate: Knowing the time investment prevents readers from abandoning mid-article.

Improves user experience: Demonstrates respect for readers’ time.

Benefits for Creators

Increases engagement: Medium found that adding reading time increased engagement.

Improves article completion rates: Readers who know what to expect are more likely to finish.

Professional appearance: Makes your site look thoughtful and reader-focused.

How Major Platforms Calculate Reading Time

Medium:

• Uses approximately 275 WPM
• Accounts for images (~12 seconds per image for first, decreasing after)
• Rounds to nearest minute

WordPress (various plugins):

• Most use 200-250 WPM
• Some account for images
• Display options vary (exact or rounded)

Manual implementation:

Reading time = (Word count ÷ 200) + (Image count × 0.2)

This adds about 12 seconds (0.2 minutes) per image.

Adjusting for Your Audience

Technical Audience

If your readers are professionals consuming technical content:

• Use lower WPM (150-200)
• Acknowledge complexity in your estimate
• Consider breaking into sections

General Audience

For broad consumer content:

• Use standard 238 WPM
• Round to nearest minute
• Display prominently near title

Academic Audience

For scholarly or research content:

• Use lower WPM (100-150)
• Note if close reading is required
• Consider section-by-section times

The Relationship Between Reading Time and Engagement

Research on content engagement shows:

Under 3 minutes: Quick reads

• High completion rates
• Social media–friendly
• Good for news and updates

3-7 minutes: Sweet spot for blogs

• Balances depth and attention span
• Good for how-to content
• Most shareable range

7-12 minutes: Long-form

• Requires strong hook
• Works for comprehensive guides
• Lower completion but higher engagement per reader

Over 12 minutes: Deep dives

• Academic or enthusiast audiences
• Consider breaking into series
• Use table of contents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 238 WPM accurate for everyone?

No, it’s an average. Individual speeds range from 150-400+ WPM. Using 238 provides a reasonable middle ground that works for most readers.

Should I round reading time up or down?

Round to the nearest minute for accuracy. If between minutes, err slightly low (readers prefer pleasant surprises over disappointment).

Do images add to reading time?

Yes. Research suggests about 12 seconds for the first few images, decreasing for subsequent images as readers become more focused on text.

How do I calculate reading time for my content?

Use a word counter to get your word count, then divide by 238 (or your chosen WPM). Add time for images if your content is image-heavy.

Is reading time the same as listening time?

No. Audiobooks/podcasts typically run at 150-160 WPM (narrator pace), so a 10-minute read might be a 15-minute listen at standard playback.

What reading time attracts the most readers?

Content in the 3-7 minute range typically performs best for engagement, though this varies by topic and audience.

Key Takeaways

• Brysbaert 2019 study: Non-fiction = 238 WPM, Fiction = 260 WPM, Reading aloud = 183 WPM
• Reading time formula: Word count / 238 = minutes
• Reading time table: 500w = 2.1min, 1000w = 4.2min, 2000w = 8.4min, 5000w = 21min
• Medium uses 265 WPM for their algorithm
• Optimal article length: 7-minute read (1,855 words) = highest engagement
• Screen reading is 20-30% slower than print

Conclusion

Calculating and displaying reading time respects your readers’ time and improves their experience with your content. Use the 238 WPM standard for general audiences, adjust for technical or specialized content, and always verify your word count before calculating. Understanding how long it takes to read your content helps you make better decisions about length, structure, and audience targeting. Try our free letter counter → to get accurate word counts for reading time calculations.