How words are counted
Every sequence of letters or digits separated by spaces or punctuation counts as one word. Hyphenated and contracted words («well-known», «don't») count as one, which matches what Microsoft Word and Google Docs report, so the totals should agree or differ by very little.
Characters include letters, digits, punctuation and spaces; «without spaces» leaves out spaces, tabs and line breaks. Many applications and journals set limits in characters, so check which one you are asked for.
How many pages is 1,000, 2,000 or 5,000 words?
With a 12-point font (Times New Roman or Arial) and 1-inch (2.5 cm) margins on Letter or A4 paper:
| Words | Single-spaced | Double-spaced | Speaking time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250 | ≈ 0.5 page | ≈ 1 page | ≈ 2 min |
| 500 | ≈ 1 page | ≈ 2 pages | ≈ 4 min |
| 1,000 | ≈ 2 pages | ≈ 4 pages | ≈ 8 min |
| 1,500 | ≈ 3 pages | ≈ 6 pages | ≈ 12 min |
| 2,000 | ≈ 4 pages | ≈ 8 pages | ≈ 15 min |
| 3,000 | ≈ 6 pages | ≈ 12 pages | ≈ 23 min |
| 5,000 | ≈ 10 pages | ≈ 20 pages | ≈ 38 min |
So a «5-page double-spaced essay» is about 1,250 words. Headings, quotes, tables and short paragraphs make a text take up a bit more space.
Reading and speaking time
Adults read silently at about 230 words per minute and speak in public at 120 to 150. For a 5-minute presentation, prepare a script of about 650 words.
Frequently asked questions
Is my text stored anywhere?
Only in your own browser, so you don't lose it if you reload the page. It is never sent to a server. Press «Clear text» to delete it.
Do citations and the bibliography count?
It depends on your assignment's rules; many exclude the reference list and appendices from the word limit. To format references, use the APA citation generator.