How to shorten text to a character limit
Sample text you can copy and try
What the Maximum length option does
What the Overflow suffix does
Truncate text and download it as a .txt file
Features explained
Maximum length
Set how long the text may be. The default is 100.
Overflow suffix
Choose the ending that marks where the text was cut. The default is …
Copy result
Copies the shortened text to your clipboard. The button changes to Copied! when it works.
Download .txt
Saves the result as a plain text file you can open in any editor.
Load example
Fills the Input text box with sample text so you can see how the tool works first.
Clear
Resets the tool so you can start again with new text.
Works in your browser
Text is processed on the page with JavaScript. The tool's code has no step that sends your text to an API.
What can you use it for?
Titles and meta descriptions
Shorten a draft to fit a length limit before you paste it into a website or page editor.
Social media captions and bios
Cut a long caption down to the length a post or profile field allows.
Preview lines and list items
Make short previews of longer text for lists, cards or tables.
Form fields and database columns
Trim text so it fits a field with a set length limit.
Product names and labels
Shorten long names for labels, tags or small spaces in a design.
Tool information
| Processing | In your browser (client-side JavaScript) |
|---|---|
| Input | Plain text typed or pasted into the Input text box |
| Default maximum length | 100 |
| Default overflow suffix | … |
| Output actions | Copy result, Download .txt |
| Download format | .txt (plain text) |
| Extra buttons | Load example, Clear |
Benefits
- Set the length limit once instead of counting by hand
- Choose the ending that shows where the text was cut
- Copy the result or save it as a .txt file
- Try the tool first with the built-in example
Limitations
- It works with plain text typed or pasted into the box.
- Download is available only as a .txt file.
- The tool cuts text to a length. It does not rewrite or summarize it, so check that the shortened text still reads well.
- Check the Result box before you use the text somewhere with a strict limit, because other sites and apps may count characters in their own way.
Your text stays in your browser
This tool processes your text on the page using JavaScript. The tool's code does not send your text to a server or API. Even so, avoid pasting passwords or other confidential text on a shared or untrusted computer.
Tips
- Start with the default Maximum length of 100 and adjust from there.
- Try a different Overflow suffix if … does not suit where you will use the text.
- Press Load example to see how the tool works before using your own text.
- Copy anything important before you press Clear.
Frequently asked questions
How do I truncate text to a certain length online?
Paste your text in the Input text box, set the Maximum length under Options, and read the shortened text in the Result box. Then copy it or download it.
What is the default maximum length?
The default Maximum length is 100. Change it to the length you need.
What does the overflow suffix do?
It is the ending used to show where the text was cut. The default is the ellipsis character …, and you can change it.
Can I change the ellipsis to something else?
Yes. Type any ending you like in the Overflow suffix box.
How do I copy the shortened text?
Press Copy result. The button changes to Copied! when the text is on your clipboard.
Can I download the shortened text?
Yes. Press Download .txt to save the result as a plain text file.
Is my text uploaded to a server?
The tool processes text on the page with JavaScript, and its code does not send your text to an API. Still, do not paste confidential text on a computer you do not trust.
How do I clear the text and start again?
Press Clear to reset the tool, then add your new text.