Speech / Reading Time Calculator
Speech Time and Reading Time Calculator - Words to Minutes
This free speech time calculator turns words into minutes (and minutes into words) so you can plan speeches, presentations, YouTube scripts, podcasts and articles. Paste your text for an instant word count and estimated speaking and reading time, or enter minutes to see how many words you need.
Average Speaking And Reading Speeds
| Speed | Words per minute |
|---|---|
| Slow speech | 110 |
| Normal presentation | 130 |
| Conversation / podcast | 150 |
| Fast speech | 160+ |
| Silent reading (adult average) | 200-250 |
How Many Words Do You Need?
| Speech length | At 110 wpm | At 130 wpm | At 160 wpm |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 minute | 110 | 130 | 160 |
| 3 minutes | 330 | 390 | 480 |
| 5 minutes | 550 | 650 | 800 |
| 10 minutes | 1,100 | 1,300 | 1,600 |
| 20 minutes | 2,200 | 2,600 | 3,200 |
Formulas
- Time (minutes) = Words / Words per minute
- Words needed = Minutes x Words per minute
Tips For Timing A Speech
- Leave time for pauses, slides and audience reactions, and aim to finish a little early.
- Rehearse once out loud with a timer, since real pace differs from estimates.
- For videos, speak a bit slower than conversation so viewers can follow.
- Write for the ear: short sentences are easier to say and to understand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How many words per minute is a normal speech?
A: Most people speak about 130 words per minute in a presentation. Slow, careful speech is about 110, and fast speech can reach 160 or more.
Q: How many words are in a 5 minute speech?
A: At 130 words per minute a 5 minute speech is about 650 words. Use the calculator to switch speeds.
Q: How fast do people read silently?
A: Adults typically read around 200 to 250 words per minute for ordinary text, and slower for technical or difficult material.
Q: How long should a YouTube script be?
A: Take your video length in minutes and multiply by your speaking speed. A 10 minute video at 150 words per minute needs about 1,500 words.
Q: Does this count words in my pasted text?
A: Yes. Paste your script or article and the calculator counts words, characters and sentences and estimates speaking and reading time. Your text stays in your browser.
Q: How accurate is the estimate?
A: It is a good guide. Pauses, slides, questions and speaking style change real timing, so rehearse once with a timer before an important talk.