- Count the number of vowel sounds in the word. Words with 2 or 3 syllables will typically have 2 or 3 vowel sounds. For example, the word "computer" has 3 vowel sounds (a, o, and e), so it has 3 syllables.
- Look at the spelling of the word. Words that end with a consonant and a silent e (like "cake") will typically have 1 syllable. Words that end with two consonants (like "dog") will typically have 1 syllable. Words with double vowels (like "meet") will typically have 1 syllable.
- Use a dictionary or online tool. If you are still unsure about how many syllables a word has, you can always check a dictionary or online tool.