Speech time calculator
Find a word budget for your next talk. Enter your draft and choose a pace to estimate its duration.
Your result updates automatically. Your text stays in this browser.
Add a script or word count to begin.
An estimate, based on your chosen pace. Time a rehearsal to check.
How to use this tool
An estimate depends on the pace you choose. Time a real rehearsal and use your own overall rate for a better comparison. Set aside time for questions, audience reactions, and slide transitions before entering your speaking slot. If you already measured a rate that includes your pauses, you do not need to add those pauses twice.
How do I convert words to speaking time?
Divide the word count by your assumed words per minute. At 150 WPM, 750 words takes five minutes. The calculator also multiplies your pace by the available minutes to estimate a word budget.
Are 120, 150, and 180 WPM recommended speeds?
They are convenient planning presets, not recommended speeds or research-based cutoffs. Enter your own pace if you know it. The estimate cannot account for how you actually deliver the answer.
How many words should a five-minute speech contain?
At 120 WPM, the estimate is 600 words; at 150 WPM, 750 words; at 180 WPM, 900 words. Leave room for anything outside the speech itself and confirm the result with a timed rehearsal.
Is my script uploaded or saved?
No. The calculation happens in your browser, and this tool does not upload or save your script. Use Clear to remove it from the form.
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