Average Reading Speed: How Fast Do People Actually Read?
The average adult reads at 200-250 words per minute. But speed varies enormously by age, profession, and what you're reading. Here's the complete data.
Reading Speed by Profession
Your job demands shape your reading speed. Here's how different professionals compare.
Typical untrained reading speed
Higher volume demands push speed
Regular grading and lesson prep
Dense contract and case review
Reports, emails, and strategy docs
RSVP and chunk reading trained
Advanced practitioner level
Reading Speed by Age Group
Reading speed develops throughout childhood, peaks in early adulthood, and can be maintained with practice.
| Age Group | Average WPM |
|---|---|
| 6-8 years | 80-120 |
| 9-11 years | 120-180 |
| 12-14 years | 150-200 |
| 15-17 years | 200-250 |
| 18-25 years | 250-350 |
| 26-45 years | 220-300 |
| 46-65 years | 200-280 |
| 65+ years | 180-250 |
Reading Speed by Material Type
What you read matters as much as how fast you read. Complex material naturally slows everyone down.
Light Fiction
News Articles
Business Reports
Textbooks
Legal Documents
Scientific Papers
Technical Manuals
How to Read Faster Than Average
Reduce Subvocalization
Most people "speak" words in their head while reading, capping speed at ~300 WPM. Training your brain to process words visually without inner speech is the biggest unlock. Learn how →
Practice RSVP Training
Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP) forces your brain to process words at a set pace, gradually increasing your comfortable speed. Learn about RSVP →
Expand Your Visual Span
Chunk reading trains you to see 3-5 words at once instead of one at a time. This alone can double your reading speed. See all techniques →
Take the Speed Reading Test
Measure your current WPM to establish a baseline, then track improvement over time with our free speed test. Take the test →
Reading Speed FAQ
Ready to Beat the Average?
Most people read at 200-250 WPM. With our free training, you can reach 500+ WPM in 30 days.
Related Articles
Continue your speed reading journey with these related guides and resources.
Read Faster in 30 Days
Complete 30-day training program to double your reading speed
Speed Reading Test
Measure your WPM and see how you compare to others
How to Speed Read
5 proven techniques to double your WPM in 30 days with free training
How to Read Faster: Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about reading faster in 2025
The Science Behind Speed Reading
What research says about reading speed and comprehension