How to Count Words in Notepad on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Notepad is a simple text editor built into Windows. However, unlike Microsoft Word, it does not include a built-in word count feature. If you need to count words in Notepad, you will need to use alternative methods.

This guide explains how to count words in Notepad on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Does Notepad Have a Word Count Feature

No, classic Notepad does not have a direct word count tool. Even in updated versions of Notepad in Windows 11, there is no dedicated word count button.

You must use workarounds to count words.

Method 1: Copy Text to Microsoft Word

If you have Microsoft Word installed:

1. Open your file in Notepad
2. Press Ctrl + A to select all text
3. Press Ctrl + C to copy
4. Open Microsoft Word
5. Press Ctrl + V to paste

Word automatically shows the word count at the bottom of the window.

Method 2: Use Online Word Counter

If you do not have Word:

1. Select and copy text in Notepad
2. Open a web browser
3. Search for online word counter
4. Paste your text
5. View the word count

This is quick and works on any system.

Method 3: Use PowerShell to Count Words

You can use PowerShell for word counting.

Steps:

1. Save your Notepad file
2. Right-click the file
3. Select Open with > PowerShell
4. Run this command:

(Get-Content filename.txt | Measure-Object -Word).Words

Replace filename.txt with your actual file name.

PowerShell will display the word count.

Method 4: Use Third-Party Text Editors

If you frequently need word count, consider switching to a text editor that supports it.

Examples include:

• Notepad++
• Visual Studio Code
• Other advanced text editors

These tools often include built-in word count features.

Difference Between Word Count and Character Count

Word count measures the number of words separated by spaces.

Character count measures the number of letters, symbols, and spaces.

Some platforms require character count instead of word count, so verify requirements before submitting content.

Final Thoughts

Notepad does not include a built-in word count feature in Windows 10 or Windows 11. However, you can easily count words using Microsoft Word, online tools, PowerShell commands, or third-party text editors. If you frequently write long documents, using an editor with built-in word count may save time.

FAQs

Does Notepad show word count in Windows 11
No, Notepad does not have a built-in word count feature.

How can I count words without installing software
Copy the text into an online word counter.

Can PowerShell count words in a text file
Yes, using the Measure-Object command.

Is Notepad++ better for counting words
Yes, it includes built-in word and character count features.

Does character count include spaces
It depends on the tool, but many tools count spaces unless specified otherwise.