How to count words in a Word document
- Add your file. Click the box above or drag your .docx or .doc file onto it.
- Read the results. Word count, character count, and reading time appear in seconds.
- Copy if you need to. Use the Copy Results or Copy JSON button to grab the numbers.
Everything happens in your browser. Your document is never uploaded, stored, or transmitted, so it stays completely private.
Does this match Microsoft Word's count?
Very closely. Word and this tool both count words by splitting text on spaces, so totals are usually within a handful of words. Small differences come from how each tool treats headers and footers, footnotes, comments, and text inside shapes or text boxes. For the body of a document, expect a near-identical number.
Why count words outside of Word?
- You only have the file, not the app. No need to open Word, Google Docs, or Pages just to check a length.
- Privacy. Unlike many online converters, nothing is uploaded. The document never leaves your device.
- One tool for every format. Got a mix of Word docs, PDFs, and copied text? Count them all in the same place.
- Speed. No sign-up, no waiting on an upload, results in seconds.
Counting PDFs and pasted text
This page is tuned for Word documents, but the tool is universal. Drop in a PDF and it counts words in the PDF too (including scanned PDFs, using built-in OCR), or paste any text to count it directly. Pick whichever input is easiest for what you have.
FAQ
How do I count words in a Word document online?
Drop your .docx or .doc file onto the tool above, or click to select it. The word count, character count, and reading time appear in seconds, and the file never leaves your device.
Does this work with both .docx and .doc files?
Yes. Modern .docx files are fully supported. Older binary .doc files are best-effort; if one does not read cleanly, re-save it as .docx or PDF, or paste the text in.
Is my Word document uploaded to a server?
No. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your document stays private on your device.
Does the count match Microsoft Word?
It is very close, usually within a few words. Differences come from how headers, footers, footnotes, and text boxes are handled.
Can I also count words in a PDF or pasted text here?
Yes. The same tool counts PDF files (including scanned PDFs via OCR) and any text you paste.