Many different word processing programs offer the ability to display a word count for your document. Here is a compilation of instructions on using word counts for different versions of Microsoft Word and several web applications. Click on the link to see the instructions for your software:
WINDOWS PC
MAC OS
Word for Mac 2011Pages for Mac
WEB APPLICATIONS
Google Docs
Don't see your software listed here, or want an easy online solution? Check out Word Counter, an online word counting web app.