Key takeaways
- Paste your text into Word Counter to see words, characters, sentences and reading time as you type.
- Limits differ between platforms and change over time, so check the current rule before you publish.
- Reading time is an estimate based on an average reading speed.
- Your text stays in your browser and is not uploaded.
Check your word count
- Open Word Counter.
- Type or paste your text. The numbers update as you write.
- Compare the words or characters with the limit you have to meet.
Words or characters?
Essays, articles and reports are usually measured in words. Social posts, SMS messages, headlines and search snippets are usually measured in characters. Spaces and punctuation normally count as characters, so a short sentence can use more than you expect.
Some common limits
Platforms change their rules, so treat these as examples and confirm the current limit before you publish.
| Where | Typical limit |
|---|---|
| X (standard post) | 280 characters |
| Instagram caption | 2,200 characters |
| Single SMS (basic characters) | 160 characters |
| Search result description | About 155 to 160 characters before it may be cut |
What reading time means
Reading time is worked out from the word count and an average reading speed. Adults commonly read somewhere around 200 to 250 words per minute, so treat the number as a guide. Technical text or text on a small screen usually takes longer.
How to cut a text down
- Remove filler words such as very, really and just.
- Replace long phrases with one word where you can.
- Split very long sentences. They are easier to read.
- Remove repeated points. Say each thing once.
After editing, change the case of headings with Case Transformer or remove repeated lines from a list with Remove Duplicate Lines.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Word Counter measure?
It counts words, characters and sentences and shows an estimated reading time.
Is my text saved or sent anywhere?
No. Counting happens in your browser and your text is not uploaded.
Do spaces count as characters?
In most character limits they do. Check the rule of the platform you are writing for.