Essay Length Calculator
Convert between essay word count, page count and reading time.
Please note: An estimate based on the figures you entered. Real-world results vary with conditions this calculation cannot see, so treat it as a starting point rather than a final answer.
What the Essay Length Calculator does
Essay length converts between words and pages using a words-per-page figure set by your formatting. The standard reference is 250 words per double-spaced page in 12pt with one inch margins, which is why a "six page essay" and a "1,500 word essay" usually mean the same thing.
Formula
Pages = Words ÷ Words per pageWords = Pages × Words per pageReading time = Words ÷ 238Speaking time = Words ÷ 130
Inputs explained
| Input | Unit | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start from | one of 2 options | Yes | — |
| Word count | number | In some modes | Accepts more than 0. Shown Start from is A word count. |
| Pages required | number | In some modes | Accepts more than 0. Shown Start from is A page requirement. |
| Formatting | one of 4 options | Yes | — |
| Words per paragraph | number | Optional | Used to estimate paragraph count. Academic paragraphs run 100–150 words. Accepts 1 or more. |
How to use it
- Choose Start from and Formatting.
- Fill in the remaining inputs the form shows for your choice.
- Optionally add Words per paragraph.
- Select Calculate.
Worked example
A 1,500 word essay, double spaced in 12pt.
- Words
- 1500
- Format
- Double spaced, 250 words/page
1,500 ÷ 250 = 6 pages. It reads in 6.3 minutes silently, or takes 11.5 minutes to present aloud.
Frequently asked questions
How many words is a page?
About 250 double spaced or 500 single spaced, in 12pt with one inch margins. Handwriting on ruled A4 runs closer to 200.
My professor asked for pages, not words — which should I aim for?
Write to the word count that matches the expected formatting, then check the page count. Padding with spacing tricks is obvious to anyone who marks regularly.