SPEECH TIME CALCULATOR
How long will your speech take?
Paste a script or enter a word count to estimate speaking time at a pace that matches your delivery.
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Words to time
WPMListen to your text
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Estimate speaking time from words
Paste a speech, presentation, podcast script, or voice-over into the calculator to count the words and estimate how long it will take to say out loud. You can also enter a known word count when the script is already measured.
The result is a planning estimate. Rehearse a representative section and use a custom WPM value when pauses, slides, audience interaction, or emphasis will change the final delivery.
Choose a speaking pace that matches the delivery
A single average cannot describe every speech. Use the pace that matches the way the words will actually be delivered.
- 100–120 WPM: deliberate speeches, teaching, complex material, and presentations with frequent pauses.
- 130–150 WPM: a practical starting range for a prepared presentation or clear conversational delivery.
- 160 WPM and above: faster, energetic delivery that may need rehearsal to keep the audience comfortable.
Plan speeches, presentations, podcasts, and voice-overs
Use the calculator before rehearsal to check whether a script fits the available slot. It is also useful when editing a video narration, comparing alternate drafts, or setting a target word count before writing.
Your text is counted in the browser. The calculator does not need an account and does not upload the script for the estimate.
Common speech lengths at 130 WPM
These are starting points for a prepared delivery. Change the speed above when your own pace is different.
| Speaking time | Approximate words |
|---|---|
| 1 minute | 130 words |
| 3 minutes | 390 words |
| 5 minutes | 650 words |
| 10 minutes | 1,300 words |
| 15 minutes | 1,950 words |
| 30 minutes | 3,900 words |
Methodology and limitations
Speaking time is calculated by dividing the word count by the selected WPM value. Actual delivery can be longer because of breathing, pauses, slide changes, audience reaction, pronunciation, and emphasis.
The calculator's presets are practical planning values. They are not a promise of exact delivery time, and your own timed rehearsal is the best calibration source.