Reading Speed Test
Words per minute reading speed
What is the Reading Speed Test?
The Reading Speed Test measures how many words per minute (WPM) you read by timing you on a standardized passage, then checking comprehension. Average reading speed is around 200–300 WPM; speed readers achieve 600+ WPM through trained techniques.
How to Use
- 1Press Start to reveal the reading passage
- 2Read at your natural comfortable pace — do not rush
- 3Press Done when you finish reading
- 4Answer comprehension questions to ensure you actually processed the content
What is a Good Score?
Average adult reading speed is 200–300 WPM. College students typically read 300–400 WPM. Speed readers train to 600–1000 WPM. Above 500 WPM with good comprehension is exceptional.
Tips to Improve
- →Reduce subvocalization (saying words in your head) — this is the single biggest limiter for most readers
- →Use a finger or pointer to guide your eyes — it reduces regression (re-reading) by 50%
- →Practice reading in word chunks (3–5 words at a time) rather than word by word
Frequently Asked Questions
What is average reading speed for adults?
The average adult reads approximately 200–300 WPM. The average college student reads around 300 WPM. Trained speed readers achieve 600–1000 WPM, though comprehension can suffer at very high speeds.
Does faster reading mean less comprehension?
Not necessarily up to around 500 WPM. Above that, comprehension typically begins to drop. The key is building automated word recognition so decoding becomes effortless rather than conscious.