How it works
- 1
Read the passage
A ~260-word text will appear. Read at your normal pace — not faster, not slower.
- 2
Tap "Done" when finished
We calculate your reading speed in words per minute.
- 3
Answer 3 questions
Short comprehension questions based on what you just read.
- 4
See your results
WPM, percentile ranking, and personalised recommendations.
Read at your natural, comfortable pace. This test measures your baseline — not your maximum speed. Rushing now gives you inaccurate results.
What you get
WPM score
Your exact words-per-minute, measured with a calibrated passage.
Comprehension check
3 questions verify you retained what you read — not just speed.
Percentile ranking
See how you compare to the ~238 WPM adult reading average.
Technique recommendations
Personalised next steps based on your score tier.
The science
The average adult reads ~238 WPM with good comprehension (Rayner et al., 2016). College students average 250–300 WPM. Elite trained readers reach 400–600 WPM. This test uses a calibrated passage followed by comprehension verification — the same methodology as academic reading-speed research.
Go further
Speed Reading Fundamentals Course
Turn your score into a structured improvement plan — RSVP, regression elimination, daily practice. Free.
Diagonal Reading Trainer
Already a fast reader? Diagonal scanning multiplies coverage for non-fiction and articles.
What is diagonal reading?
Learn the evidence-based structured scanning technique used by speed readers.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good reading speed?
200–250 WPM is average for adults. 300+ WPM is above average. 400+ WPM is fast. Comprehension matters as much as speed — 500 WPM with 40% comprehension is worse than 280 WPM with 90%.
How accurate is this WPM test?
Very accurate for a self-timed test. We use a calibrated ~260-word passage and a comprehension gate. The methodology mirrors academic reading-speed research. Expect ±5–10% variance between runs.
Does the speed test work on mobile?
Yes — fully optimised for mobile browsers. Tap on the passage to start reading, and tap "Done" when you finish.
What should I do after the test?
Start the free Speed Reading Fundamentals course — it turns your score into a structured improvement plan with evidence-based exercises and a daily practice routine.