Speech time calculator
Paste your speech or presentation script to see how long it will take to deliver, or set a target length to see how many words to write.
How many words per minute do people speak?
Most people speak at around 130 to 160 words per minute in presentations, and about 150 is a good average. Speakers slow down for emphasis, pauses and audience reactions, so plan a little under your target.
| Talk length | Words at 130 wpm | Words at 150 wpm |
|---|---|---|
| 1 minute | 130 | 150 |
| 3 minutes | 390 | 450 |
| 5 minutes | 650 | 750 |
| 10 minutes | 1,300 | 1,500 |
| 20 minutes | 2,600 | 3,000 |
On the day, keep yourself on time with the stage timer or presentation clock.
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Questions people ask
How many words is a 5-minute speech?
About 650 to 750 words, at 130 to 150 words per minute.
How long is a 1,000-word speech?
About 6 to 7.5 minutes, depending on how fast you speak.
How can I check my own speaking speed?
Read a passage of known length aloud for exactly one minute with a timer, then count the words. That's your words per minute.