How many words can a content writer write per hour on average? The average writing productivity ranges considerably based on the type of content, the experience of the writer, and other factors. Many professional full-time content writers aim for an average target of around 500-800 words per hour.
Let’s break down the factors that influence average words per hour and give a more comprehensive look at typical writing speeds:
Experience Level
Naturally, a writer’s experience level has a huge impact on their speed and productivity. Beginner writers just starting out may only average 200-300 words per hour as they spend more time researching, drafting, and revising. Mid-level writers with 1-3 years of experience can often hit 300-500 words per hour on average. Very experienced and fast professional writers may be able to write 500-800 words per hour consistently. Of course, some prolific experts can write even faster at 800-1000+ words per hour on routine tasks.
Content Type
The type of content being written also affects words per hour. More complex or in-depth content like long-form articles or eBooks generally have lower averages than simpler pieces. Some estimates for different content types include:
Blog posts (500-800 words): 400-600 words per hour
Articles (1,000-2,000 words): 300-500 words per hour
Ebooks or guides (5,000-10,000 words): 200-400 words per hour
Web content, quotes, headlines: 500-1,000 words per hour
SEO optimized pages: 300-500 words per hour
Copywriting: 400-600 words per hour
Research Requirements
The amount of required research also impacts productivity. For example, a writer may only average 200-300 words per hour when extensive keyword research and topic analysis is involved at the beginning. Once the research stage is complete, writing speed can increase. Additionally, topics requiring little background work allow for faster writing.
Distractions and Interruptions
How focused or interruptive one’s writing environment is makes a large difference. Writing in a busy, distracting environment may reduce words per hour by 50-100 compared to a quiet space with few interruptions. Things like children, notifications, or an open-concept workspace exacerbate this.
Writing Process
Some writers find they can write faster with less focus on structure or formatting in a first draft, then refine as needed. Others prefer outlining first to maximize flow. Iterative writing processes tend to have lower initial word counts than those who “vomit draft” and polish later.
Comfort & Familiarity
As with any skill, writing becomes faster and more comfortable with practice and experience with a specific topic or brand’s style. A writer new to a subject or publication may average lower starting out as they learn nuances.
Goals & Pacing
Setting realistic yet challenging goals, prioritizing flow states, minimizing procrastination, and maintaining a consistent routine helps many writers optimize their rate. Pushing too fast or slowing can both decrease productivity overall. Finding a sustainable, focused pace is key.
Given these variables, most professional freelance writers who write full-time average between 500-800 words per paid hour depending on their experience level and specific assignments. Entry-level remote positions may estimate 3-5 hours for a 1,000 word article, for example. Experts can often complete those in 2 hours or less. Writers supplement these averages with client communication, topic brainstorming, or research as needed without counting against billable hours. Being familiar with averages equips both clients and writers to set expectations appropriately based on their demands. With experience, focus, and efficient processes, most writers can continuously increase their sustainable output over time.
While writing speed can vary wildly day-to-day depending on numerous influences, aiming for an average of 500-800 words per paid hour is a realistic target rate for a full-time freelance content writer producing routine blog posts, articles, web pages, or similar content. Experts, well-practiced topics, and simpler pieces allow exceeding this, while more complex long-form work, extensive research requirements, or unfamiliar clients/brands may decrease a writer’s hourly pace. Understanding typical writing speeds helps set appropriate expectations and goals between clients and professionals. With experience, comfortability, and optimized processes, most competent writers can continuously increase their long-term averages.