Reading speed varies by age, experience, and comprehension level. On average, adults read between 200 and 250 words per minute, while children and teens typically read more slowly. This guide breaks down average reading speeds by age group.
Average Reading Speed by Age
| Age Group | Words Per Minute (WPM) |
|---|---|
| 6–8 years | 60–100 WPM |
| 9–12 years | 100–150 WPM |
| Teens | 150–250 WPM |
| Adults | 200–300 WPM |
What Affect Reading Speed?
- age and reading level
- familiarity with the content
- difficulty of the text
- focus and distractions
Test Your Reading Speed
Test your reading speed with this free reading speed tester. Paste text into the box below, click start, read the text, and click finish to estimate your words per minute.
Example Use Cases
- checking your reading speed for study sessions
- comparing reading speed by age
- estimating comprehension pace
- practicing faster reading
What Is a Good Reading Speed?
A good reading speed depends on your goals:
• casual reading → 200–250 WPM
• studying → slower for comprehension
• speed reading → 300+ WPM
Helpful Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average reading speed for adults? Most adults read between 200 and 250 words per minute.
How can I improve my reading speed? Practice regularly, reduce distractions, and use tools to track progress.