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A word count is the number of words that a document contains. The program wc in Unix/Linux can do word counts, as can many word processors. Knowing the number of words in a document is vital, since authors may have to write their work within certain minimum or maximum bounds. This is usually the case in academia and legal proceedings. Word counting algorithms can vary between software; for example, footnotes may or may not be counted. Therefore, counting the words of a given document using different software may give unequal results.

Word counts are important in defining typing and reading speeds, which are usually given in words per minute.

They are also important in defining different categories of writing, particularly prose writing, for judgment in various literary contests.

• Epic: A work of 200,000 words or more.
• Novel: A work of 60,000 words or more.
• Novella: A work of at least 17,500 words but under 60,000 words.
• Novelette: A work of at least 7,500 words but under 17,500 words.
• Short story: A work of at least 2,000 words but under 7,500 words. (1,000 words minimum by some definitions)
• Flash fiction: A work of less than 2,000 words. (1,000 by some definitions)

The acceptable length of a thesis varies greatly, dependent predominantly on the subject. Griffith University gives the following maximums (not including appendices or footnotes):

• Doctor of Philosophy: 100,000 words
• Master of Philosophy: 50,000 words
• Doctor of Education: 50,000 words
• Doctor of Visual Arts: 20,000 words

Word counts are also important for spoken pieces. Formal speaking in English is usually around 100 to 120 words per minute. Thus a four minute speech should be around 400 to 480 words, an eight minute speech 800 to 960 words, and a twelve minute speech 1200 to 1440 words.