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Assignment Word Counter

Count the words in your assignment, essay or report as you type. Set a word limit to see how many words you have left, and get the character count, sentences, paragraphs, page estimate and reading time. You can also open a Word document (.docx).

Your text

Or open a file

The file is read on your device, not uploaded.

Word count

Start typing or paste your text to count the words.

How to use the Assignment Word Counter

  1. Type or paste your text, or open a .docx or .txt file.
  2. Optionally enter the word limit for your assignment.
  3. Watch the word count, words left and other stats update as you type.

Your data stays on your device. This calculator runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you type is sent to our server or saved. Read our privacy policy.

Why word counts matter

Assignments, essays, applications and scholarship statements usually have a word limit, and going far over or under can cost marks. The counter updates as you type and compares your text with the limit you set.

What is counted

  • Words, characters (with and without spaces), sentences and paragraphs.
  • Reading time at about 200 words a minute, and speaking time at about 130 words a minute, useful for speeches and presentations.
  • An estimate of pages, based on typical double-spaced and single-spaced pages.

Typical lengths

WritingUsual length
Short answer or abstract150–300 words
Essay or assignment1,000–2,500 words
Personal statement (UCAS)4,000 characters
Scholarship essay500–1,000 words
Five-minute speechabout 650 words

Counting a Word document or PDF

Open a .docx or .txt file directly. For a PDF, first copy its text with PDF to Text and paste it here.

Does the limit include references?

Usually not, but rules differ. Most universities exclude the reference list, title page and appendices and include headings and quotations. Check your assignment brief.

Frequently asked questions

Does this count words the same way as Microsoft Word?

Very nearly. Like Word, it counts each group of characters separated by spaces that contains a letter or number, so hyphenated words count as one. Word may differ slightly if it includes footnotes or text boxes.

Is my assignment uploaded anywhere?

No. Your text and any file you open are read in your browser and never sent to our server.

How strict are word limits?

Many teachers allow 10% over or under the word limit, but some are strict. Check your assignment brief. Headings, references and the bibliography are often not counted.