What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
To count words in Microsoft Word, check the status bar at the bottom of the window. Select a passage to see its word count as well as the document total. In Word for the web, switch to Editing view; if the count is hidden, use Review > Word Count and turn on Show Word Count.
Count words in desktop Word
- Check the document total. Open the document and look at the status bar along the bottom of the Word window. The word-count display shows the document’s count. Microsoft identifies the status bar as the place to check it (Microsoft Support: Show word count; Microsoft Support: Use a screen reader to explore and navigate Word).
- Count a passage. Select the text you want to check. The status bar displays the selected text’s count alongside the total document count, so you can compare a section with a target without counting the whole document separately.
- See more statistics. Click the word-count display to open additional statistics, including characters, paragraphs, and lines.
Show the count in Word for the web
- Make sure the document is in Editing view. The count may not appear at the bottom of the window in other views.
- If it is missing, select Review > Word Count, then select Show Word Count to display it.
- Keep typing or editing: Microsoft says Word for the web counts words as you type. Microsoft’s feature comparison lists word count in both Word for the web and desktop Word (Microsoft Support: Show word count; Microsoft Support: Word Features Comparison: Word for the web vs Desktop).
Insert a word count in the document
Desktop Word can place a word-count field in the document itself. This is useful when the count needs to appear on the page rather than only in the app’s status bar.
- Place the cursor where the count should appear.
- Select Insert > Quick Parts > Field.
- Choose NumWords, then confirm.
- If the displayed number does not reflect later edits, right-click the field and select Update Field. Microsoft also documents updating fields before printing (Microsoft Support: Use fields to insert word count in your document).
If your Word screen looks different
Microsoft 365 features can roll out gradually, so labels or placement may differ between app builds. The documented steps above cover the main desktop and web workflows; Microsoft’s guidance does not establish a universal rule for every counting edge case, such as hyphenated expressions, text boxes, or embedded content. If a particular passage’s count matters, check it in the Word version and document you are using.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsQuick Recap
Rank #3
- Instant Copilot. Unlock new possibilities with the dedicated Copilot key, which gives you instant access to experiences that can enhance your productivity¹.
- Enhance your experience With the new microphone mute key and snipping key
- Full keyboard experience. Features a full mechanical keyset, backlit keys, and a large trackpad for precise navigation and control. Optimal key spacing allows fast, fluid typing.
- Slim and compact Performs like a traditional, full-size keyboard.
- Clicks in place instantly Use in combination with the Surface Pro (11th Edition), Pro 9 and Pro 8* kickstand for a perfect laptop experience anywhere.
Rank #2
- Compact design saves desktop space and allows for close, comfortable mouse position.
- Optimized key spacing and key travel for fast, fluid typing.
- Sleek, low-profile design complements any workspace.
- Expressive input key[2] for quick access to emojis, symbols, and more.
- Connect up to 3 devices and switch seamlessly between them[1].
#1 Best Overall
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
