Average Reading Speed: How Fast Do People Read?
Updated February 2026 · 8 min read
Quick Answer
The average adult reads 200-250 words per minute. College students average 300 WPM. Speed readers reach 400-700 WPM.
Average Reading Speed by Age and Level
| Reader Type | Words Per Minute |
|---|---|
| Grade 1 (age 6-7) | 60-80 WPM |
| Grade 2 (age 7-8) | 80-115 WPM |
| Grade 3 (age 8-9) | 115-140 WPM |
| Grade 4-6 (age 9-12) | 140-180 WPM |
| Middle School | 180-220 WPM |
| High School | 220-260 WPM |
| Average Adult | 200-250 WPM |
| College Student | 300 WPM |
| Speed Reader | 400-700 WPM |
| World Record | 1000+ WPM |
Reading Time for Common Content
| Content | Word Count | Reading Time (200 WPM) |
|---|---|---|
| Tweet | 15-20 words | 5 seconds |
| Short blog post | 500 words | 2.5 minutes |
| Standard blog post | 1500 words | 7.5 minutes |
| Long form article | 3000 words | 15 minutes |
| Short story | 7500 words | 37 minutes |
| Short novel | 70000 words | 5.8 hours |
| Standard novel | 90000 words | 7.5 hours |
7 Proven Ways to Read Faster
Reduce Subvocalization
Subvocalization is the habit of silently saying words in your head as you read. It limits your speed to your speaking pace. Practice reading without mentally pronouncing each word.
Expand Your Eye Fixations
Most readers fixate on every single word. Train your eyes to take in 2-3 words per fixation. This alone can double your reading speed with practice.
Use a Pointer
Use your finger or a pen to guide your eyes across the page. This reduces re-reading and keeps your eyes moving at a consistent pace.
Minimize Re-reading
Most readers go back and re-read sentences they just read. This is the biggest speed killer. Trust your comprehension and keep moving forward.
Preview Before Reading
Before reading a chapter or article, scan the headings, subheadings and first sentences of paragraphs. This primes your brain and improves both speed and comprehension.
Eliminate Distractions
Reading speed drops dramatically with distractions. Read in a quiet environment with notifications off. Even background music can reduce reading speed and comprehension.
Practice Daily
Reading speed improves with practice just like any other skill. Read for at least 20-30 minutes daily. Track your speed monthly to see improvement.
Test Your Reading Speed Free
Find out your exact reading speed with our free reading time calculator. Time yourself reading any text and instantly see your words per minute.
Calculate Your Reading Speed →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average reading speed for adults?
The average adult reads 200-250 words per minute for normal text. College students average around 300 words per minute. Speed readers can reach 400-700 words per minute.
What is a good reading speed?
A good reading speed is 300-400 words per minute with good comprehension. Above 400 words per minute is considered fast. Below 150 words per minute is considered slow for an adult.
How can I read faster?
Improve reading speed by reducing subvocalization (saying words in your head), expanding your eye fixation to read multiple words at once, using a pointer to guide your eyes, practicing regularly and minimizing re-reading.
Does reading faster reduce comprehension?
At moderate speed increases comprehension is usually maintained. At extreme speeds above 700-800 words per minute comprehension drops significantly. The goal is to increase speed while maintaining at least 80% comprehension.
How long does it take to read 1000 words?
At the average reading speed of 200-250 words per minute, 1000 words takes approximately 4-5 minutes to read. At 300 words per minute it takes about 3.5 minutes.