How Long Does It Take to Read 500 Words?

2 min 6 sec
at average reading speed (238 wpm)

Average (238 wpm)

2 min 6 sec

Skimming (400 wpm)

1 min 15 sec

Careful (150 wpm)

3 min 20 sec

Read Aloud (150 wpm)

3 min 20 sec

Reading 500 words at an average speed of 238 words per minute takes approximately 2 min 6 sec. If you are skimming for key information, it takes about 1 min 15 sec. For careful study reading, allow 3 min 20 sec.

Reading Time by Speed

Reading Style	Speed	Time
Skimming / Scanning	400 wpm	1 min 15 sec
Average reading	238 wpm	2 min 6 sec
Careful / Study reading	150 wpm	3 min 20 sec
Reading aloud	150 wpm	3 min 20 sec
Speed reading (trained)	600 wpm	50 sec

What Can You Read in This Time?

At 500 words, you are looking at the equivalent of:

A short news article or blog post
A single page of a textbook
Approximately 2 single-spaced pages

Tips for Faster Reading

Minimise subvocalisation (saying words in your head) to increase reading speed by 20 to 50 per cent.

Use a pointer (finger or pen) to guide your eyes across each line — this simple technique can boost speed by 25 per cent.

Preview the text first: read headings, first sentences, and bold text to build a mental framework before reading in detail.

Count Your Words Now

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