Guide + calculator
Speech time calculator: how many words is an X-minute speech?
Before you record a video, rehearse a talk or hit the stage, it pays to calculate how many words your script should hold to fit the time you have. Use the calculator below and the words-per-minute table to tune your text.
Calculator
Slow 110 · Normal 130 · Video 150 · Fast 170
Your script needs
650 words
For 5 min at 130 words/min
Table: how many words per duration
Estimated values for three common English speaking rates.
| Duration | Slow (110 WPM) | Normal (130 WPM) | Fast (160 WPM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 min | 110 | 130 | 160 |
| 2 min | 220 | 260 | 320 |
| 3 min | 330 | 390 | 480 |
| 5 min | 550 | 650 | 800 |
| 10 min | 1,100 | 1,300 | 1,600 |
| 15 min | 1,650 | 1,950 | 2,400 |
| 20 min | 2,200 | 2,600 | 3,200 |
| 30 min | 3,300 | 3,900 | 4,800 |
| 45 min | 4,950 | 5,850 | 7,200 |
| 60 min | 6,600 | 7,800 | 9,600 |
What is words per minute (WPM)?
Words per minute, or WPM, is the average rate at which someone speaks. Most people land between 110 and 160 WPM. The ideal pace depends on the format:
- Formal talks and speeches: 110 to 130 WPM — leaves room for pauses and emphasis.
- Short social videos: 150 to 170 WPM — keeps attention and packs more in.
- Podcasts and narration: 140 to 160 WPM — natural, not rushed.
- Technical presentations: 100 to 120 WPM — listeners need time to process.
How to use this estimate in your script
- Set the target duration for your video or talk.
- Pick the pace (WPM) based on format — short video, talk, podcast.
- Use the calculator to land on a target word count.
- Paste the script into the teleprompter and tune the speed until you hit the target time.
- Time a real read-through: the actual delivery always refines the estimate.
Frequently asked questions
How many words is a 1-minute speech?
At normal pace (130 WPM), about 130 words. It ranges from 110 to 160.
How many words for a 3-minute video?
For video (150 WPM), roughly 450 words.
How many words for a 15-minute speech?
Around 1,950 words at normal pace, or between 1,650 and 2,400 depending on speed.
And for an 18-minute TED talk?
Around 2,340 words at a talk pace (130 WPM). Most TED scripts land between 2,200 and 2,500 words.
Ready to record?
Paste your script into the Strategy Lab teleprompter and tune font, speed and pace in real time — free and signup-free.
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