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- Speaking time in minutes = words ÷ words per minute.
- An easy conversational pace is about 130 words per minute, slow and clear is about 100 to 110, and fast is about 160.
- At 130 words per minute, 1,000 words take 7 minutes 42 seconds.
- You can also enter a time limit to see how many words fit.
How to use the speech time calculator
Choose what you know
Pick Word count to get the time, or Time limit to get the number of words.
Enter the number
Type the words in your speech, or the minutes you are allowed to speak.
Set your speed
Keep 130 words per minute or enter your own pace after a rehearsal.
Add pauses if needed
Open the advanced option to add extra time for pauses, slides and questions.
How speech time is calculated
Speaking time depends on how many words you say each minute. Divide your word count by your speed to get minutes, and multiply minutes by your speed to get the number of words that fit.
Speech time formulas
Time in minutes = words ÷ words per minute
Words that fit = minutes × words per minute
With pauses = time × (1 + extra time %)
Double-spaced pages = words ÷ 250
The result is shown as minutes and seconds, rounded to the nearest second.
Speech time examples
Example 1: a 1,000 word speech
At the easy pace of 130 words per minute.
- Speaking time 7:42
- At 100 words per minute 10:00
- At 160 words per minute 6:15
- Double-spaced pages 4
Slowing down by 30 words per minute adds more than two minutes.
Example 2: a 5 minute time limit
How many words fit at 130 words per minute.
- Words that fit 650
- At 100 words per minute 500
- At 160 words per minute 800
Aim for about 650 words if you speak at an easy pace.
Example 3: a 1,000 word speech with 20% extra
The same speech with 20% added for pauses and slides.
- Speaking time 9:14
The extra 20% turns 7:42 into 9:14.
Speech length chart at 130 words per minute
Common speech lengths.
- 500 words 3:51
- 1,000 words 7:42
- 2,000 words 15:23
- 650 words 5:00
- 1,300 words 10:00
- 2,600 words 20:00
Roughly 130 words fill one minute at an easy pace.
Where a speech time calculator helps
Write to a time limit
Know how many words to write for a 5, 10 or 20 minute slot.
Plan a toast or talk
Check that your words fit before the event.
Prepare a presentation
Add pause time for slides and questions.
Record a voiceover
Estimate the length of a script before you record.
Speaking speed changes with nerves, accents, pauses and the audience, so treat the result as a starting point and time one real run-through. Related tools: Time Duration Calculator and Pomodoro Calculator.
Speech time calculator FAQ
How long is a 1,000 word speech?
About 7 minutes and 42 seconds at 130 words per minute. At a slower 100 words per minute it takes 10 minutes.
How many words is a 5 minute speech?
About 650 words at 130 words per minute. A slower speaker may fit 500 and a fast speaker 800.
How many words per minute is a normal speaking speed?
Most people speak between about 110 and 160 words per minute. 130 is a comfortable middle value.
How many words is a 10 minute speech?
About 1,300 words at 130 words per minute.
Should I add time for pauses?
Yes, if you will use slides, take questions or pause for effect. Use the extra time option to add a percentage.
Is reading aloud slower than talking?
Often you read at a more even speed than you talk, but it varies by person, so rehearse once with a timer.