Does the count include the title and headings?

It counts every word in the box, including the title, headings, captions and in-text citations. If your assignment leaves any of them out, paste only the parts that count.

Can I see characters and paragraphs as well?

Yes. The bar under the text box shows words, characters with and without spaces, sentences and paragraphs at the same time. Copy word count puts the current number on your clipboard.

Does it count words as I write?

Yes. The count updates live with every keystroke, so you can stop exactly at your target without manual recounting.

Does a dash between words count as a word?

A hyphen inside a word keeps it as one word, so 'well-being' is one. A dash with spaces on both sides, as in 'word – word', counts as a word of its own, because the counter splits only on whitespace.

Essay Word Counter

Paste or type your essay to see the word count update in real time. Stay on target for assignment limits, application essays, and dissertation chapters. All counting runs in your browser using JavaScript.

Text input

COUNT

Runs entirely in your browser

How it works

The counter recounts the text box on every change, so the figure moves as you type. Words are split at whitespace, so 'well-being' is one word and a dash with spaces around it counts as one on its own. Copy word count writes the current number to your clipboard when you click it.

Processing runs in your browser

All counting happens locally in your browser tab. Our servers are not involved at any point.

Related operations

For checking reading difficulty alongside word count, try the readability checker. To generate placeholder copy of a target length, use lorem ipsum. For tidying capitalisation as you draft, see the case converter.

Frequently asked questions

Does the count include the title and headings?: It counts every word in the box, including the title, headings, captions and in-text citations. If your assignment leaves any of them out, paste only the parts that count.
Can I see characters and paragraphs as well?: Yes. The bar under the text box shows words, characters with and without spaces, sentences and paragraphs at the same time. Copy word count puts the current number on your clipboard.
Does it count words as I write?: Yes. The count updates live with every keystroke, so you can stop exactly at your target without manual recounting.
Does a dash between words count as a word?: A hyphen inside a word keeps it as one word, so 'well-being' is one. A dash with spaces on both sides, as in 'word – word', counts as a word of its own, because the counter splits only on whitespace.

Last reviewed September 30, 2026

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