How Long Does It Take to Write 1000 Words? (and 1200 in 40 Minutes)

The Short Answer

Typing 1,000 words takes about 25 minutes at 40 words per minute, but writing them from scratch usually takes longer because you also plan, think and edit. For many people a finished 1,000-word piece takes roughly one to two hours, and more if it needs research. This is an estimate, not a rule.

Time to Write 1,000 and 1,200 Words by Speed

Typical typing speeds are often around 40 words per minute, and handwriting is usually slower. These are rough guides, and your speed depends on the task. Writing with ideas flowing is faster than writing from notes you have not planned.

Where the Time Goes

• Planning: outlining your points first saves time later.
• Drafting: the typing itself, at your net speed with thinking pauses.
• Editing: reading through, trimming and fixing errors.
• Research: checking facts or sources adds extra time.

Can You Write 1,200 Words in 40 Minutes?

That needs a net speed of about 30 words per minute, including thinking. It is possible if you plan briefly (spend the first 5 minutes on an outline), write steadily, and leave a couple of minutes to check. Handwriting is slower than typing for most people, so practise under timed conditions. Use the word counter to check how many words your practice answers contain.

Tips to Write Faster

• Write a short outline before you start.
• Draft first and edit afterwards instead of polishing as you go.
• Set a timer and write in short focused blocks.
• Track your word count with the word counter.

To see how long 1,000 words runs on the page, see how many pages is 1000 words.