Speed Reader
Read faster with one word at a time (RSVP) at any speed, up to 1,000 wpm.
About this tool
Paste an article or document, set the speed with the slider (100β1,000 words per minute), choose one, two or three words at a time, and press Start (or the space bar). Words flash in a fixed position with the red 'optimal recognition point' letter; the tool slows slightly for long words and punctuation.
What speed reading can and cannot do
Rapid serial visual presentation removes the eye movements that take up much of normal reading, which is why people can comfortably 'read' at two or three times their normal pace with it. The research is clear about the trade-off: comprehension holds up for easy, familiar material at moderate speeds and declines for dense or technical text, partly because you cannot regress to re-read a sentence and partly because the pauses that build understanding are gone. Used honestly, that makes RSVP a triage tool β newsletters, first drafts, the article you would otherwise skim β rather than a way to read a contract or a textbook. Most adults read at 200β300 wpm; try 350β450 here and adjust. Nothing is uploaded or saved. The text counter gives the word count and normal reading time, the text summarizer shortens the text before you read it, and the readability checker tells you why a text feels slow.
Frequently asked questions
What is the red letter?
The optimal recognition point β the letter your eye fixes on to recognise a word fastest, slightly left of centre. Aligning it keeps your eyes still between words.
What speed should I start at?
300 wpm, roughly normal reading speed, then raise it in steps of 50 until comprehension slips. Most people settle at 400β500 for light material.
Does it work on a phone?
Yes; the space bar shortcut becomes the Start button. Paste from another app or your notes.
Is it good for studying?
Not for material you need to retain in detail β you cannot re-read or pause naturally. Use it for previewing or for light reading.