spoken words per minute speech

Do you wonder how long it takes to deliver your speech?

This website helps you convert the number of words into the time it takes to deliver your speech, online and for free. This tool is useful when preparing a speech or a presentation. The number of minutes you will take is dependent on the number of words and your speed of speech, or reading speed.

Note: This calculator provides an indication only.

Enter details below

The overview below provides an indication of the minutes for a speech (based on an average reading speed of 130 words per minute):

• Words in a 1 minute speech 130 words
• Words in a 2 minute speech 260 words
• Words in a 3 minute speech 390 words
• Words in a 4 minute speech 520 words
• Words in a 5 minute speech 650 words
• Words in a 10 minute speech 1300 words
• Words in a 15 minute speech 1950 words
• Words in a 20 minute speech 2600 words
• How long does a 500 word speech take? 3.8 minutes
• How long does a 1000 word speech take? 7.7 minutes
• How long does a 1250 word speech take? 9.6 minutes
• How long does a 1500 word speech take? 11.5 minutes
• How long does a 1750 word speech take? 13.5 minutes
• How long does a 2000 word speech take? 15.4 minutes
• How long does a 2500 word speech take? 19.2 minutes
• How long does a 5000 word speech take? 38.5 minutes

Speaking time calculator

Type or paste your speech to instantly calculate your speaking time

How does this speech timer work

To begin, delete the sample text and either type in your speech or copy and paste it into the editor.

The average reading speed and speech rate is 200 words per minute and is the default setting above. Once you paste your speech, click “Play” and Speechify will analyze your speech by the number of words and generate a time to speak it at the default rate.

You can listen to your speech in various accents or languages. If you are aiming for a specific timeframe for your speech, click edit to either increase or decrease the number of words to see how long it would take to speak them.

You can also increase or decrease the speaking rate to gauge how fast or slow you should speak in order to get to a specific time with the number of words you have in your speech.

To get to that perfect word count to fit with the speech length time, you’ll have to keep editing between words per minute (WPM) and number of words.

The best part is that you can share your speech in audio format to your friends, relatives, or peers to review it. They can simply click play and listen to your speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many words are there in a 1 minute speech.

Based on the average speed of speech, there are 150 words in a 1 minute speech.

How many words are there in a 2 minute speech?

There are 300 words per minute in a 2 minute speech. 2 minutes isn’t a long time so when you speak, you could endure the average speaking rate.

How many words are there in a 3 minute speech?

On average there are 450 words in a 3 minute speech. This is based on the average speech rate of 250 words per minute. At the 3 minute mark, even a novice speaker could keep going at the rate they started – with some practice.

How many words are there in a 4 minute speech?

On average there are 600 words in a 4 minute speech. This is based on the average speech rate of 250 words per minute. Still, even a novice speaker could maintain the 150 words per minute rate. Try it in the Soundbite above. Set your words per minute and speak along to see if you could endure consistency over 4 minutes.

How many words are there in a 5 minute speech?

On average there are 750 words in a 5 minute speech. This is based on the average speech rate of 250 words per minute. While this is simple math, we after all are humans and 5 minutes can be pushing the boundaries of a consistent speech tempo and words per minute.

How many words are there in a 10 minute speech?

In a 10 minute speech aim for 1000 words. The math might tell you 1,500 words but consider your speech. You might need pauses, rest for your voice, dramatic effects, and perhaps even audience interaction. Also, it becomes quite difficult to endure a consistent 150 words per minute speech rate for 10 minutes. Consider your listeners. We doubt very few people would want to listen to a precisely 150 words per minute speech for 10 minutes. It wouldn’t be engaging. And in a speech, you should engage and communicate.

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Guide to Speaking Rates: How Many Words Per Minute Should Your Speech Be?

Ever find yourself grappling with the pace of your words during a presentation? You’re definitely not alone. It turns out, the average speaking rate for folks in the United States is about 150 words per minute – a little nugget of information that was a game-changer for me on my path to becoming more confident in public speaking .

In this article, we’re going to dive into everything from understanding different speech rates to fine-tuning your own rhythm , ensuring your next presentation strikes the perfect balance .

Stick around; you won’t want to miss these insights!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Speaking at the right speed is crucial for keeping your audience engaged. The average speaking rate in the United States is about 150 words per minute. But, this can change based on who you’re talking to and what you’re saying.
• Different types of speeches need different speeds. For TED Talks, aim for around 163 words per minute to keep things interesting. Political speeches should be slower, at about 110-120 words per minute, to add weight to your words. Business presentations work best at a pace of about 140 words per minute.
• Your speaking rate can vary because of many reasons like where you’re from, how excited you are, or if you know a lot about the topic. Other big factors include how confident you feel and physical things like being tired or sick.
• You can get better at finding the right speed by practicing out loud with exercises and asking people for their honest thoughts on your speech style. Using tools like word counts helps plan how long your talk will be.
• Changing how fast or slow you speak during a presentation makes it more exciting and helps highlight important points. Slowing down when sharing something significant or speeding up when showing excitement keeps listeners interested.

Understanding Speaking Rates and Words per Minute

Understanding speaking rates involves grasping the concept of speaking rate and average reading speed, as well as identifying the factors that influence how fast or slow someone speaks.

Additionally, it’s important to understand the ideal speaking rate for different types of speeches such as TED Talks , political speeches , and business presentations .

What is speaking rate

Speaking rate is how fast or slow you talk, measured in words per minute . For example, the average speaking rate for English speakers in the United States is around 150 words per minute.

This number can change depending on who you are talking to or what you’re talking about. Some people naturally speak faster, while others take their time and speak more slowly.

The speed at which someone speaks can affect how well the audience understands and engages with the speech. Speaking too fast might confuse listeners, but going too slow might make them lose interest.

Knowing your ideal speaking pace helps keep your audience hooked and conveys your message effectively. Let’s look into why understanding this balance is crucial for public speakers of all levels.

Average reading speed

After introducing the concept of speaking rate, it’s essential to touch on the average reading speed . This is crucial because it sets a baseline for understanding how our speaking speed compares to how fast we read.

This table outlines different scenarios and the average or recommended words per minute for each. It helps us gauge how our reading speed compares to various speaking contexts. For instance, while the average conversation rate and general speeches pace are similar at about 150 words per minute, voiceovers tend to be much slower, at 75 words per minute. This comparison underscores how context affects the ideal speaking speed, showing us that effective communication is not just about what we say but also how fast we say it.

Factors that influence speaking rate

The pace we speak at is influenced by several factors, including our regional dialect, cultural background, and level of excitement . Other key influencers are our familiarity with the topic , our own confidence levels, and any existing anxiety or nervousness. Additionally, physical factors like fatigue, illness, or even the layout of the speaking space can also impact our speaking rate.

• Regional dialect and cultural background : The rhythm and intonation patterns associated with different dialects and cultures affect how fast or slow someone speaks.
• Level of excitement : When we’re excited or passionate about a topic, we tend to speak more quickly.
• Familiarity with the topic : If we’re very familiar with what we’re talking about, we might speak faster than if the subject matter is new to us.
• Confidence levels and anxiety : Higher confidence levels generally result in a faster speaking pace, whereas anxiety may cause someone to speak more slowly.
• Physical factors : Fatigue, illness, or environmental factors such as an uncomfortable speaking space can also influence speaking rate.

These variables show that many diverse aspects can affect how quickly or slowly someone speaks during a presentation or speech.

The Ideal Speaking Rate for Different Types of Speeches

TED Talks, political speeches, and business presentations each have their own ideal speaking rates to keep the audience engaged and effectively convey the message. Varying your speaking rate is essential for captivating different audiences in these varied speech contexts.

TED Talks are renowned for their powerful, thought-provoking content. The ideal speaking rate for TED Talks is about 163 words per minute . This pace allows the speaker to convey their message clearly and engagingly, keeping the audience captivated throughout the talk.

It’s important to maintain a steady yet expressive speed while delivering a TED Talk to effectively communicate your ideas and connect with your audience.

– Political speeches

Political speeches

Political speeches should aim for a speaking rate of about 110-120 words per minute . This allows the audience to absorb the information and feel the emotion behind your words. Remember , slower speaking rates can add weight and significance to your message, especially during pivotal moments in a speech .

For political speeches, aiming for around 110-120 words per minute ensures that you convey gravitas and allow your audience to absorb every point without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Business presentations

When delivering business presentations, aim for a speaking rate of around 140 words per minute . It’s crucial to vary your speed and enunciate clearly to maintain audience engagement .

Keep in mind that the average reading speed is about 150 words per minute , so adjusting accordingly will help ensure your message is effectively communicated.

The ideal speaking rate for different types of speeches varies; however, for business presentations, a slightly slower pace can help convey complex information more clearly and allow time for the audience to digest key points.

Tips for Selecting the Right Speaking Speed

Select the right speaking speed by knowing your own rate, using word counts, planning for delays, and varying your pace to keep your audience engaged. Read more on our blog!

Know your own speaking rate

Assess your speaking rate by timing yourself for a minute as you speak naturally. Then count the number of words spoken. This will help determine your average speaking speed . Repeat this process a few times to get an accurate estimate.

For example, if you speak around 160 words in a minute, then your speaking rate is faster than the average English speaker.

Understanding how fast or slow you normally speak can inform adjustments needed when preparing speeches and presentations. This self-awareness enables better planning and aids in choosing the ideal pace for conveying your message effectively to different audiences, like when delivering TED Talks or political speeches.

Use word counts as an estimation

When determining your speaking rate , use word counts to estimate how many words you need for a specific time frame . For example, if you aim for a 5-minute speech and speak at the recommended rate of 140 words per minute, then plan to include around 700 words in your speech.

Knowing this estimation can help you tailor your content effectively for different speaking duration requirements.

By using word counts as an estimation tool , it allows you to gauge how much content is needed based on the duration of your speech. This method helps in planning and organizing the material to fit within the allocated time while ensuring that key points are effectively conveyed without rushing or dragging them out.

Plan for technical delays and Q&A

Plan for technical delays and Q&A by adding extra buffer time to your speech. It’s common for things to go off schedule, so allow a few extra minutes in case of tech hiccups or questions from the audience.

Prepare some backup material in case you need to fill time unexpectedly. Also, practice answering potential Q&A queries during your rehearsals so you can respond confidently and succinctly.

Remember that technical issues are part of public speaking , so remaining calm and prepared will help you deliver a smooth presentation even if something unexpected happens.

Vary your speaking rate

To keep your audience engaged, change the speed of your speech. Slow down for important points and speed up to show excitement or urgency. This technique helps maintain interest and emphasizes key ideas , making your speech more dynamic.

Try adjusting your speaking pace using pauses, emphasizing words, or changing tone. Varying your rate adds interest and keeps listeners focused through different speeds and rhythms.

It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance engagement throughout your speech.

How to Improve Your Speaking Rate

Improve speaking rate by practicing different exercises and seeking feedback for adjustment. Always aim to enhance your verbal delivery.

Practice with different exercises

To improve your speaking rate, try these exercises:

• Read aloud various texts at a comfortable pace , gradually speeding up.
• Use a metronome to set the pace and match your speaking rate to it.
• Practice tongue twisters to enhance articulation and fluency.
• Record yourself speaking and analyze areas for improvement.
• Engage in role – playing scenarios to boost confidence and spontaneity.
• Experiment with storytelling to vary your speaking speed and tone.
• Attend public speaking workshops or join clubs like Toastmasters for structured practice.

Now let’s delve into the different exercises for improving your speaking rate!

Seek feedback and adjust accordingly

As a beginner in public speaking, seeking feedback and making adjustments is crucial. Feedback helps you understand how others perceive your speech rate and style. Adjusting accordingly can make your delivery more effective.

Remember, practice doesn’t make perfect; perfect practice makes perfect! Therefore, seek out opportunities to speak in front of diverse audiences or record yourself to get constructive criticism from different perspectives.

Taking this step will help you gain confidence and enhance your speaking skills.

I’ve learned a lot about speaking rates and how they can impact a speech. Speaking at the right speed can make your message clearer and more engaging for your audience. Now, let’s hear from an expert in public speaking.

Meet Dr. Linda Harris, a renowned communication specialist with over 20 years of experience teaching effective speaking techniques at prestigious universities. Dr. Harris has authored several influential papers on voice modulation and oratory excellence, securing her place as an authority in the field of public speaking.

Dr. Harris emphasizes that understanding your personal speaking rate is crucial for crafting speeches that resonate with audiences. By aligning your delivery with the content’s nature and audience expectations, you enhance comprehension and retention.

She refers to studies indicating optimal engagement levels when speakers maintain rates close to 140-160 words per minute.

On safety, ethics, and transparency in speech delivery, Dr. Harris highlights the importance of accurate information dissemination above maintaining specific speech speeds. Ensuring messages are truthful maintains credibility regardless of the presentation pace.

She advises incorporating varied speech rates into everyday conversations as practice for formal presentations. This flexibility not only improves adaptability but also enriches personal communication skills noticeably.

In her balanced evaluation, Dr. Harris recognizes potential challenges like adapting to technological aids during online presentations or managing time constraints in live talks effectively without sacrificing quality — issues often addressed through conscientious preparation and continuous self-awareness.

Ultimately, Dr. Harris endorses prioritizing clarity and emotional connection over rigid adherence to exact words-per-minute counts in most speaking scenarios while acknowledging certain contexts may demand stricter timing control for maximum effect.

Her insights underline practical apparatuses offered by knowing ideal speech velocities yet encourage speakers to prioritize their unique voice within this framework.

Ryan Nelson is the founder of Speak2Impress, a platform dedicated to helping individuals master the art of public speaking. Despite having a crippling fear of public speaking for many years, Ryan overcame his anxiety through diligent practice and active participation in Toastmasters. Now residing in New York City, he is passionate about sharing his journey and techniques to empower others to speak with confidence and clarity.

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Words per Minute Calculator

Table of contents

Have you ever wondered how long it takes to deliver a speech? Or how much time you need to read a book? This words per minute calculator (or WPM calculator for short) will help you convert between the number of words and the time taken to read or say. This way, you will not only learn how many words is a 5-minute speech but also how long it takes you to read a document with 2000 words.

If you want to know how much time you need to finish a book, head straight to our reading speed calculator !

Words per minute (speech)

In order to determine how long your presentation takes, you first need to find your speaking speed — how many words per minute of speech you can deliver. For example, the average speaking speed in English is 130 wpm (words per minute). If, however, you are frequently told that you speak very slowly or very fast, you should adjust this value accordingly.

You could also measure your speaking speed experimentally. Set a timer to one minute and start reading a passage of text aloud. Once the timer stops, count the words you managed to read. This number is your words per minute speech speed — you can input it directly into our calculator after selecting the radio button Other .

Words per minute (reading)

The same principle as your speaking speed applies to your reading speed — the number of words per minute of reading. The average reading speed for the English language is between 170 and 240 wpm , depending on the text difficulty and your English ability.

Naturally, you can measure your reading speed and input it directly into this reading words per minute calculator. All you have to do is set a timer to one minute and start reading a book (or an e-book ), this time silently. Once the timer rings, count the words you read and input the number into the respective field (below the radio button Other in the reading section).

How many words is a 5 minute speech?

Once you know your speaking and reading speed, the calculations are a piece of cake! All you have to do is input the number of words you have to say into this words per minute calculator, which will tell you how long your presentation should take.

Of course, you can also use this calculator to figure out the maximum number of words in a speech with a limited time frame — for example, 5 minutes. Let's look at how to use this tool in more detail.

Choose whether you will speak to an audience or silently read the text. In this case, we are going to choose speech.

Select your speaking speed . We will stay with the average value of 130 wpm.

Determine the duration of the speech — here, we will pick a 5-minute elevator pitch.

Multiply the reading speed by the time to find out how many words are in a 5-minute speech:

130 × 5 = 650 words

Your speech can have a maximum of 650 words.

How many words per minute in a speech?

The average speaking speed in English is 130 words per minute . However, the average speaking rate changes according to the task before a speaker — for presentations, it goes down to 100-120 wpm, while for YouTubers, it's up to 150-160 wpm. When picking the right pace, you should also consider your audience, e.g., the presence of kids or non-native speakers!

How many words per 10 minute speech?

To deliver a successful ten-minute talk, prepare between 1000-1200 words. The absolute maximum you should have is 1300 words.

How many words are in a five minute speech?

A 5-minute speech should have between 500-600 words. Be careful not to exceed 650 words, or you'll talk too fast and, as a result, lose the audience!

How do I calculate the number of words in a talk?

To determine the number of words in a talk that will last m minutes:

Decide on the speaking rate r :

• Average: 130 wpm (words per minute);
• Slow: 100 wpm; and
• Fast: 160 wpm.

Multiply the speaking rate by the time you have in minutes:

The result in 2 is the number of words your talk should contain.

Number of words

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Speaking speed

Speaking time

Reading speed

Reading time

How Many Words Per Minute Does the Average Person Speak?

By ellen gutoskey | may 22, 2022.

Unless you’re an audiobook narrator or a frequent public speaker (or you have some other job involving the relationship between time and speech), you might not have any idea how many words people tend to utter in a given minute.

First off, it depends on what kind of speaking you’re doing: a presentation, a norm conversation, etc. But even when you break it into separate categories, words-per-minute estimates vary widely. If you’re casually talking to a friend, some sources claim that you’re probably saying somewhere between 100 and 130 words per minute, while others cite the range as 120 to 150 words. According to professional speech training firm Successfully Speaking , conversational speech is typically in the 150-180 ballpark. 

Whatever the average conversational speech rate may be, it’s generally agreed that presentations should be spoken more slowly than that. Improve Podcast estimates that the average falls between 100 and 150 words per minute. But speeches are fairly often given at a quicker pace. VirtualSpeech crunched the numbers on five popular TED talks of various lengths and found that the speaking rates actually fell between 154 (delivered by Brené Brown) and 201 (Tony Robbins) words per minute, for an average of 173 wpm.

On the whole, audiobook narrators, radio hosts, and podcasters supposedly speak slightly faster than they would during a regular chat: around 150 to 160 words per minute. Auctioneers are in a class of their own, clocking roughly 250 words per minute. And commentators, who need to keep up with fast-paced play, may even outpace auctioneers.

But when it comes to the fastest talker of all, nobody’s ever done it better than Sean Shannon, who holds the Guinness World Record for ‘ fastest talker .’ In 1995, Shannon recited the 260-word ‘To be or not to be’ speech from Shakespeare’s Hamlet in 23.8 seconds—which works out to 655 words per minute.

Have you got a Big Question you'd like us to answer? If so, let us know by emailing us at [email protected].

Speech calculator:  how long does it take to deliver your speech?

With this speech calculator, you can easily calculate how long it will take you to deliver a speech.

How many words per minute?

In the English language, people speak about 140 words per minute. A fast speaker will get to 170 words per minute, a slow speaker will use around 110 words.

Professional speechwriters use this speech calculator to find out how long a speech takes.

Copy your full text and paste it in the box below:

The entire analysis happens within your browser. The text will NOT be stored and NOT be sent over the web.

Word count:

Your speech rate:

Speech duration:

FAQ’s

How many words is a 3 minute speech  .

A speaker with an average speaking speed will need 420 words for a 3 minute speech. A fast speaker will need 510 words while a slow speaker will only need 330 words.

How many words is a 5 minute speech?  

A speaker with an average speaking speed will need 700 words for a 5 minutes speech. A fast speaker will need 850 words for the same speech length. A slow speaker will only need 550 words.

Is this a word count calculator?  

The speech calculator is a word count calculator. Insert your text and the tool will automatically calculate the word count.  It will then also calculate the speech length depending on the selected talking speed.

How to best select the right speaking speed?

Fast, average or slow? The answer depends on the speaker, the speech type and the speech setting.

The speaking speed of the speaker

Some speakers are natural fast or slow speakers. The best speakers keep a variance during their speeches. They speed up to keep momentum and slow down to put special emphasis on other parts.

The speech type

The type of speech matters a lot in selecting the right speech speed. If you read the whole speech word for word from paper then your average speech speed will be lower. If you intend to use the written speech as speaker notes then your average speaking speed will be much higher.

The speech setting

An informal setting will have a faster average speaking speed compared to a more formal setting.

Keeping all three factors in mind you will able make a better judgement about selecting the right speech speed in the speech calculator.

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Convert Words to Time

Calculate how long it will take to read a speech or presentation

Enter the word count of your speech below to see how long it will take you to read. Estimate the number of minutes based on a slow, average, or fast speaking pace.

Number of words

Reading speed, common conversions (average speed).

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What's your speech rate?

Why a flexible speaking rate is important.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

Is your speech rate too fast, too slow, or just right?

And what is, a normal speaking pace?

The answers to both questions are not straight forward. They fall into the 'it depends' category. And what they're depending on is context. 

Context is everything when it comes to deciding whether the speed you speak at is good, extremely good, or poor.

What you'll find on this page

• why, and when, speech rate becomes important
• what speech rate is and how it is calculated
• 2 ways of finding out your own speech rate
• speech rate guidelines - what's fast or slow?
• reasons to change your speech rate
• exercises to develop a flexible speaking rate
• a link to a free printable: a diagnostic resource used by speech therapists to test speech fluency and rate, The Rainbow Passage
• a link to a quick reference guide: how many words per minute are in 1 through to 10 minute speeches .
• links to authoritative references for more information

Why, and when, is speech rate important? 

Speech rate – how fast, or how slowly a person talks, only becomes important when the speed of their speech becomes a barrier to effective communication.

If people listening are not able to fully take in or comprehend what is being said and a large part of the reason for that is speech rate, then it's time to take action. 

What is speech rate? How is it calculated?

Speech rate refers to a person's habitual speaking speed. It's calculated through counting the normal number of words they say per minute, and just like people, words per minute (wpm) can vary hugely.

Additionally, because all words are not equal, wpm can only ever be an approximate measure. For instance, a word can be as simple as a single syllable like "it" or a single letter like “I”, or a collection of many syllables such as “hippopotamus” or “tintinnabulation” - the ringing of bells.

One syllable is considerably quicker to say than many, just as a simple short sentence is faster to say than a complex longer one. 

How to work out your own speech rate

Here are two ways of working out your habitual speech rate.

The first is to read aloud The Rainbow Passage. This piece of text is frequently used by speech language therapists  as a diagnostic tool   to test a person's ability to produce connected speech . 

Record yourself as you read it aloud at your regular speaking rate for one minute.

How far you get through the passage will give you an indication * of your rate of speech.

Here are the first 175 words. The entire piece has 330 words.

(There's a printable pdf of the whole  Rainbow Passage for you to download at the bottom of the page.)

The Rainbow Passage

When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air, they act as a prism and form a rainbow. The rainbow is a division of white light into many beautiful colors. These take the shape of a long round arch, with its path high above, and its two ends apparently beyond the horizon. (51 words)

There is, according to legend, a boiling pot of gold at one end. People look, but no one ever finds it. When a man looks for something beyond his reach, his friends say he is looking for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. (99 words)

Throughout the centuries people have explained the rainbow in various ways. Some have accepted it as a miracle without physical explanation. To the Hebrews it was a token that there would be no more universal floods. The Greeks used to imagine that it was a sign from the gods to foretell war or heavy rain. The Norsemen considered the rainbow as a bridge over which the gods passed from earth to their home in the sky. (175 words)

* I've used the word 'indication' because you are reading aloud rather than giving a speech or talking to a friend. There is a difference.

You'll also need to take into account your familiarity with the text. A 'cold' reading, that is reading the passage without seeing it before hand will probably influence how much of it you get through in a minute.

Record yourself delivering a speech

The second way to test yourself is to record one of your own speeches or presentations. This will give you a much more accurate measure of your actual speech rate.

If you have the text of your speech in a word document you'll have access under the Tools tab (see image below) to the total word count.

Record the speech. Then take the time you took to deliver it and use it to divide the number of words.

To give you an example I recorded the 'Hall of Fame' speech I wrote for a client a couple of years ago. I took 4.9 minutes to say it through.  The total word count of the speech is 641. 

Therefore, 641 words divided by 4.9 minutes = a speaking rate of 130 words per minute.

Speech rate guidelines

Studies show speech rate alters depending on the speaker's culture, geographical location, subject matter, choice of vocabulary and its usage (simple short sentences v complex),  fluency, use of pauses,  gender, age, emotional state, health, profession, audience, and whether or not they're using their primary, or native, language.

However, despite these variables, there are widely accepted guidelines. These are:

• Slow speech is usually regarded as less than 110 wpm, or words per minute.
• Conversational speech generally falls between 120 wpm at the slow end, to 160 - 200 wpm in the fast range.
• People who read books for radio or podcasts are often asked to speak at 150-160 wpm.
• Auctioneers or commentators who practice speed speech are usually in the 250 to 400 wpm range.

Why change your speech rate?

Generally people are not conscious of their habitual speaking speed and if they are easily understood by those listening to them there is little reason to change. Their speech could be considered too slow or too fast by people outside of their normal environment but if they are not routinely communicating with them it doesn't really matter.

However changes of audience and speech purpose can force a need to become more aware of speaking speed.

For example - a shift from one part of a country to another, from a slower speaking area to a faster speaking one, will, through audience response, make a habitually slower speaker aware of their speech rate.

Similarly someone with naturally fast speech who takes a job requiring presentations to colleagues or customers, will find themselves having to slow down in order to communicate effectively.

Having an accent makes a difference too. If the language you're using is not your first one there may be pronunciation issues which make it harder for your audience to understand you. Slowing down your rate of speech will help. 

Public speaking and rate of speech

If you're giving a speech or presentation, the concept of a normal speaking speed doesn't apply.

What does is flexibility - the ability of the speaker to mix and match pace appropriately with speech content and the audience's ability to comprehend it.

Experience and audience reaction will teach you that a one-size-fits-all approach will be far less effective than careful variation in rate.

Exercises to change speaking rate

If you know you speak either too fast, too slowly or without speed variation then exercises to develop flexibility are what you need.

Here are   Quick and Easy Effective Tips for Speaking Rate Flexibility

These six exercises specifically address the undesirable audience responses brought on by a speaker either talking too quickly or too slowly. Have fun with them!

How many words per minute in a speech?

When you have a speech to give with a strict time limit it's useful to have an estimate of how many words will fit comfortably into the time allocated, before you begin to write.

For more see:  How many words per minute in a speech: a quick reference guide  for 1 through to 10 minute speeches.  

Do you know what your voice says about you?

Find out about Voice Image First impressions count and they're not only about looking good, but sounding good too!

References and additional information

Miller, N., Maruyama, G., Beaber, R. J., & Valone, K. (1976). Speed of speech and persuasion . Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 34(4), 615–624. 

Smith, S. M., & Shaffer, D. R. (1991). Celerity and cajolery: Rapid speech may promote or inhibit persuasion through its impact on message elaboration . Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 17(6), 663–669. 

Rodero, E. (2012). A comparative analysis of speech rate and perception in radio bulletins . Text & Talk, 32 (3), pp. 391–411 

Apple, W., Streeter, L.A., & Krauss, R. M. (1979).  Effects of Pitch and Speech Rate on Personal Attributions . Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 37( 5), 715-727

Optimal Podcast Words per Minute Rate for Biggest Impact - an extremely thorough article by Chris Land of improvepodcast.com

What is the ideal rate of speech?   Public speaking coach Lynda Stucky 'shows and tells' about speech rate. She's made 7 variations of The Rainbow Passage so that you can hear the difference speed makes.

Speech Pace: do you talk too fast or too slow? Take this test . - a YouTube video by speech teacher  Laura Bergells.

Perfect Your Speed Talking at This Auction School  - a YouTube video showing how The Missouri Auction School teaches speed speech. ☺

Download The Rainbow Passage

Click the link to download a printable pdf of   The Rainbow Passage .

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Convert Speech Words to Minutes

How long will my speech be? Use the calculator below to convert your words to minutes. 1) Enter the number of words your speech is. 2) Choose your speaking style/speed 3) Find your speech length.

The following table below provides an indication of the minutes for a speech (based on an average reading speed of 125 words per minute):

• How many words are in 1 minute speech? 125 words
• How many words are in 2 minute speech? 250 words
• How many words are in 3 minute speech? 375 words
• How many words are in 4 minute speech? 500 words
• How many words are in 5 minute speech? 625 words
• How many words are in 10 minute speech? 1,250 words
• How many words are in 15 minute speech? 1,875 words
• How many words are in 20 minute speech? 2,500 words
• How many words are in 30 minute speech? 3,750 words
• How long does a 500 word speech take? 4.0 minutes
• How long does a 1000 word speech take? 8.0 minutes
• How long does a 1250 word speech take? 10.0 minutes
• How long does a 1500 word speech take? 12.0 minutes
• How long does a 1750 word speech take? 14.0 minutes
• How long does a 2000 word speech take? 16.0 minutes
• How long does a 2500 word speech take? 20.0 minutes
• How long does a 3000 word speech take? 24.0 minutes
• How long does a 4000 word speech take? 32.0 minutes

Welcome to our conversion tool - Words to Minutes! We are here to help estimate the duration of any speech for conventions, zoom calls, weddings, special celebrations, business presentations, graduations, classroom demonstrations, performances, you name it. Use the Convert Speech Words to Minutes calculator to better prepare yourself for your next presentation.

How to use Convert Speech Words to Minutes

• Enter Word Count: Enter the number of words in your speech. You can find your word count by copying and pasting your speech in Wordcounter.net or Google Docs. In Google Docs go to TOOLS --> Word Count to see how many words.
• Choose Speed of Speaker: Choose your speaker pace from the options available: slow speaker, average speed speaker or fast speaker.

Make sure to choose your speech speed as it can have a major impact on your timing. Remember you will likely speak fast at times, and slow as well. Thus, average is typically a good indicator as to how long your speech or presentation will take. Whether you are making a wedding speech or giving a business presentation, this conversion of words into minutes should hold true.

Now you have an idea of how many minutes your speech will take to deliver, and can make any modifications if necessary. Also be sure to add time for audience participation if your speech calls for that.

Why should I use the Convert Speech Words to Minutes?

Do you know how many minutes are in a 5-minute speech, or maybe how long does a 2000 word speech take?

Using the words to minutes converter tool is crucial while preparing for a speech or presentation, especially when you are given limited time to convey your message and wrap up your ideas. Although the time may vary according to the delivery speed of each individual, converting words to minutes is a good indication of the length of your content and if it is suitable for the time frame you were given. That is how you know if you should work on your content length. Keep in mind that according to the National Center for Voice and Speech , the average rate of conversational talk in the US is around 150 words per minute (wpm), which means that balancing content, the number of words and reading speed does matter when preparing your speech.

How to craft an outstanding speech

Whether you are preparing content for a speech presentation for a business meeting, a graduation celebration of a wedding, the content does matter. While speaking in public does require a good amount of confidence, when you prepare yourself in advance, you will empower yourself with tools that will assure you are ready for it. With your speech, your main goal is to engage with your audience, catch their attention and delivery a message that will convey your idea in a clear and effective way. Here are some tips to help:

• Write using the first person. Use a conversational tone.
• Start by briefly introducing yourself.
• Prepare a striking outline/opening statement.
• Construe your speech in structural steps.
• Start with a topic sentence in every paragraph.
• Do not feel too shy to express your honest opinion.
• Practicing ahead of time will help tremendously. It helps with confidence, knowing the material, comfortability, and much more. This is our top tip!

In order to engage with your audience, try to include personal stories, share your personal experiences and do not feel constrained to share your personal opinion. Good luck, you got this!

What do you think about our Convert Speech Words to Minutes tool? Was it helpful? We want to hear from you.

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Words To Time Converter

Estimate how many minutes your speeches, presentations, and voice-over scripts will take based on your words per minute rate!

Words per Minute: 183

How To Convert Words to Minutes Using This Tool?

If you have a certain number of words or a piece of text you want to time, you can either type in the word count or paste the text into the provided area. This tool will then calculate how long it would take to read that text out loud.

The talk time estimate is calculated using the average speaking speed of adults, which is determined to be 183 words per minute based on scientific studies. If you’re interested in how long it would take to read silently, it’s estimated at 238 words per minute ( This data is also backed by research )

You can adjust the slider to change the words per minute value, which will affect the talk time estimate. However, the silent reading time estimate remains fixed at 238 words per minute. 

For ease of use, we’ve also provided reference points for slow, average, and fast reading rates below the slider.

To begin anew, simply click the ‘clear text’ button to erase the content and restore the slider back to its original setting of 183.

I. Who is This Words to Minutes Converter Tool For?

If you are a student wondering how long is my essay or you’ve been tasked with writing a speech and need to know how many words to aim for and how many minutes will it take to deliver or perhaps you are a podcaster, just starting out, who wants the ability to easily synchronize music and spoken word without having to painstakingly calculate seconds between them, then this words to time converter (or speech time calculator-you may call it if you are a public speaker) is precisely for you! 

From now on, instead of spending long hours in front of the computer trying to figure out how many seconds it takes for one phrase or section of dialogue to end and another to begin, you can let our innovative tool do all the work and convert your text to time quickly and accurately. With this powerful tool at your disposal, whether you’re giving a TED talk or just need to nail a business presentation, your life will become a little bit easier.

So keep reading to learn more about what this fantastic words to minutes converter has in store for public speakers, aspiring students, and professional radio producers alike!

Whether you want to read the text silently or speak aloud, you can use this tool as both:

• Reading time calculator
• Talk time calculator

II.I Explanation of the Reading Time

Reading time refers to the duration it takes for an average person to read a written text silently while still comprehending its content. Based on an extensive analysis of 190 studies that involved 18,573 participants , research conducted by Marc Brysbaert in 2019 suggests that the typical silent reading speed for an adult individual is approximately 238 words per minute .

To convert word count to read time for a specific text, you can do so by dividing the total word count of the text by this established value of 238. Here is the mathematical equation for determining the duration of reading time in minutes:

Reading Time = Total Word Count / 238

II.II Explanation of the Speech Time

Speech time refers to the duration it takes for an average person to read a text out loud. Based on data from 77 studies involving 5,965 people , it’s been found that most adults read aloud at a speed of approximately 183 words per minute ( research conducted by Marc Brysbaert in 2019 ). To figure out how long it will take to read a specific piece of text aloud, you can divide the total number of words in the text by this average rate of 183 words per minute.

Of course, it’s important to note that talk time can vary depending on factors such as clarity of speech, pauses for emphasis, and use of visual aids. However, using this tool for converting the number of words to minutes can still provide a helpful guideline for planning and practicing your presentation. By having a better understanding of speech rates, you can ensure that your message is delivered effectively and efficiently.

III. Benefits of Using a Words to Time Converter

Time management in presentations.

Effective time management during presentations is crucial to ensure the audience remains engaged and the information is accurately conveyed. This is where our speaking time converter comes in handy. By using this tool, presenters can easily determine how many words they need to include in their presentation to stay within the allotted time frame.

Not only does it help with time management, but it also ensures that the pacing of the presentation is consistent, making it easier for the audience to follow. With the use of this tool, presenters can confidently deliver their presentations without the worry of running over time or rushing through it.

Estimated speech time for public speaking

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, especially when you have too little or too much information to fill your time slot. You wonder only if there were an accurate public speaking time calculator available so that you could be able to allocate the appropriate amount of time to each section of your presentation, ensuring that you cover all the necessary points without rushing or going over time. 

Effective pacing is key in ensuring your message is delivered with clarity and impact.

Most public speakers target an average of 130-150 words per minute for their spoken content, meaning you should aim to limit your speaking time to roughly one minute per 130-150 words. While this may take some practice to achieve, the end result is a confident, well-timed delivery that keeps your audience engaged from start to finish.

Remember, in public speaking, less is often more—take your time to breathe and emphasize key points. Your audience will appreciate your thoughtful and measured approach. For that, you can use this tool and adjust your words to speech time.

Accurate estimations for audiobooks and podcasts

As more and more people turn to audiobooks and podcasts for their entertainment and information needs, accurate estimations of listening time have become more important than ever. After all, there’s nothing worse than settling in for a quick listen only to find yourself trapped in a story that goes on for hours longer than you anticipated.

That’s why it’s great to see publishers and podcast producers taking estimated reading time seriously, providing listeners with the information they need to choose the right content for their schedule. Whether you’re looking for a quick listen on your daily commute or a lengthy distraction for a lazy Sunday afternoon, accurate estimations using this speaking time calculator make it easier than ever to find the perfect content.

IV. Some Popular Speech Times

V. Conclusion

As the world becomes more fast-paced, time is a precious commodity. Determining how long your script will take to read, whether for a presentation or a video, can make a significant difference in engaging and retaining your audience’s attention.

That’s where our Words to Time Converter comes in handy. It’s a valuable tool for anyone working in various professions, from broadcast journalists to teachers to executives. No matter the industry, time is of the essence, and knowing how long your speech or presentation will take is crucial for effective communication.

How Many Words Should Be in My Speech? (Based on Number of Minutes)

Crafting a speech? Typically, individuals speak at 125-200 words per minute. For instance, a 5-minute speech is about 625-1000 words. Keep this pace in mind to tailor your speech’s length to your time limit. Familiarity and nerves can also influence speed.

You can use our handy guide to find out how many words should be in your speech, based on the number of minutes you have to speak. We will also discuss the ideal word count for different lengths of speeches. Let’s get started!

At a Glance:

• Average speaking rate is 125-200 words per minute.
• Word count for a 5-minute speech is typically 625-1000 words.
• Speaking speed varies based on personal style, familiarity, and nerves.
• Several factors influence the ideal word count for a given speech duration.
• Regular rehearsal ensures effective speech delivery.

Speech Duration vs. Word Count

Estimating speaking time for a manuscript, factors affecting the word count in your timed speech, number of words based on the number of minutes.

The average person speaks at a rate of about 125 to 200 words per minute, but this can vary depending on your natural speaking style and the context of your speech. Other factors like how well you know your material and how nervous you are can also affect your speaking rate.

When it comes to speeches, many people worry about how many words they should use per minute. The truth is, there is no specific number. However, knowing the average word count for different speech lengths can help you plan and pace your words more effectively.

Here is a breakdown of the average word counts for speeches of different lengths.

To simplify things, let’s look at word counts for standard time intervals:

1-minute speech: 125 – 200 words 5-minute speech: 625 – 1000 words 10-minute speech: 1250 – 2000 words 15-minute speech: 1875 – 3000 words 20-minute speech: 2500 – 4000 words 30-minute speech: 3750 – 6000 words 45-minute speech: 5625 – 9000 words 60-minute (or 1-hour) speech: 7500 – 12000 words

For intermediate minutes, you can use the average rate of 125-200 wpm to estimate.

If you have a written speech or manuscript, you might be curious about its duration when spoken.

Here’s a quick guide based on word counts:

100 words: About 0.5 to 0.8 minutes 200 words: About 1 to 1.6 minutes 250 words: About 1.25 to 2 minutes 500 words: About 2.5 to 4 minutes (And so on, using the average speaking rate of 125-200 wpm.)

Several factors can impact how many words your speech should ideally have for a given time frame. Understanding these variables can help you deliver a presentation that’s both engaging and perfectly timed. Here’s a breakdown of these influential factors:

• Natural Speaking Rate: Every individual possesses a unique speaking pace. Some naturally express thoughts swiftly, clocking in around 200 words per minute or even faster. In contrast, others may speak more deliberately, averaging around 125 words per minute. This inherent rhythm greatly influences the word count of a speech for a given time frame.
• Audience Demographic: Your audience’s age, background, and familiarity with the topic can dictate the speed at which you should present. For example, a technical presentation for industry experts might proceed faster than one for novices, even if the word count remains consistent.

• Topic Complexity: More intricate or challenging subjects demand a slower pace to ensure comprehension. In such cases, even if the speech’s duration is lengthy, the word count might be on the lower side to accommodate pauses and explanations.
• Use of Visual Aids: Incorporating slides, charts, or videos can mean fewer words spoken. Visual elements often require pauses, allowing the audience to process the information visually rather than just auditorily.
• Nervousness: Unsurprisingly, nervousness can speed up one’s delivery. A speaker might rush through their material when anxious, resulting in a higher word count in a shorter time frame.

Crafting a speech that’s both engaging and appropriately timed is an art. While the word count provides a framework, considering the factors above ensures your speech is not just well-timed, but also effective. As you prepare, always prioritize clarity, engagement, and resonance with your audience over sticking rigidly to word counts.

It’s important to know how many words your speech should be so that you can plan and structure it accordingly. We hope this guide will help you determine the number of minutes your speech should be based on the number of words. Keep in mind that this is just a general guideline, and you may need more or less time depending on your content.

So use this as a starting point, and then adjust as needed. And most importantly, practice, practice, practice! The more you run through your speech beforehand, the smoother it will go when you’re up in front of an audience. Thanks for reading!

Related Posts:

Average Words Per Minute Speaking: Why It Matters

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• Last Updated On: June 2, 2024

Understanding your speaking pace can unlock new levels of communication effectiveness and personal insight. While many overlook the importance of speaking speed, it plays a crucial role in connecting and conveying our messages to others.

This exploration delves into the nuances of your average speaking rate, providing actionable advice to refine your verbal delivery and overall presentation skills.

Let’s explore the common pitfalls in speech delivery and master the art of impactful communication, backed by research indicating that influential speakers adjust their speed to match their message and audience.

📝 Key Takeaways

• 📊 Ideal speeds vary from 100-150 WPM for presentations to 250-400 WPM for commentators.
• 🕰️ Time yourself reading aloud to identify your average pace and areas for improvement.
• 📈 Your cultural background, confidence, and public speaking comfort significantly impact your speaking speed.
• 💻 Practice, feedback, and technology can help you fine-tune your speaking rate for clearer communication.

What Is The Average Words Per Minute For Speaking?

One may wonder, “How many words does the average person speak per minute?”

The average speaking rate is 150-160 words per minute (WPM) for podcasters. This can vary with context and individual differences, ranging from 110-250 WPM . Radio presenters or podcasters may speak faster than the average rate.

Average Words Per Minute (WPM) by Speaking Context:

Words to Minutes Calculator – Podcast Episode Timing

Planning your podcast episode ? Use this simple calculator to determine how long your script will take to deliver. Enter your script length and choose your average speaking speed.

Get results instantly to help manage your episode timing perfectly. This free tool is great for podcasters who want to plan their episodes and keep their audience engaged.

How to Determine Your Speaking Rate

Calculating this and adapting your average WPM can greatly enhance communication skills and ensure effective information delivery.

• Select a passage or piece of text that is around 200-300 words long. This length is ideal because it’s long enough to get an average rate but short enough to be manageable.
• Before you start reading, set a timer. Smartphones usually have a stopwatch function that works perfectly for this.
• Read the passage out loud, just as you would in a conversation or presentation. Do not rush or deliberately slow down; aim for a natural pace.
• Once you’ve finished reading, stop the timer and note down the time taken.
• To determine your speaking rate in words per minute (WPM), divide the number of words in the passage by the time taken in minutes to read it.
• Your speaking rate can vary depending on context, mood, or the complexity of the content. Repeating the process with different types of passages (e.g., technical content vs. casual conversation) might help you get a range of your average speaking speed.
• If your speaking rate is too fast or slow for your intended audience or purpose, practice adjusting it. Using a metronome can help maintain a consistent pace.
• Sometimes, we do not judge our speaking pace best. It can be beneficial to get feedback from peers or mentors. They can provide insights into whether you’re speaking too fast, too slow, or just right.
• Several apps and online tools can automatically calculate your speaking rate by analyzing a recorded speech sample.

Remember, while determining your speaking rate is useful, paying attention to clarity, intonation, and enunciation is also essential. The goal is to communicate effectively; sometimes, that might mean adjusting your pace to ensure comprehension.

Speaking Rate (WPM) of Professional Speakers

The average speaking rate of professional speakers is 167 words per minute (WPM).

It’s important to note that while Steve Jobs’ talk isn’t from the regular TED conferences, it’s featured on the TED website. This presentation, given by the late visionary, is a masterclass in capturing the audience’s attention and delivering a poignant message.

Tony Robbins, the fastest speaker on our list, epitomizes that speed need not compromise clarity. His crystal-clear articulation and lucid language ensure his message is understood, irrespective of the brisk pace.

Speakers must adjust their speaking rate to match their audience’s listening comfort . Racing through content might lose listeners, while a languid pace could let their attention drift. The art lies in striking that perfect equilibrium.

Optimal Script Length for Podcast Episodes

As podcasting continues to gain traction as a favored medium for content delivery, understanding the ideal script length for varying episode durations can be invaluable.

The table below provides a guideline for scriptwriters and podcasters to ensure content remains engaging and concise for listeners.

By aligning the script length with the intended duration, creators can better plan, structure, and deliver their content for maximum impact. Dive in to discover the recommended word count for your next episode!

➡️ How Long Should a Podcast Be ?

Factors That Influence The Speed Of Speech Of The Average Person

Many factors influence the speed at an average person speaks, including:

The Culture You Were Raised In

It might sound crazy, but the culture you were raised in can significantly impact your average speaking speed. Some cultures and languages naturally speak much faster than others, which can seriously impact your average WPM.

If you grew up speaking a first language that is naturally fast-paced, such as Spanish or Italian, then it is likely that you will speak at a faster rate than someone who grew up speaking a language with slower speech rates, such as English.

Slower speakers might take two seconds to say a word, while faster speakers could say the same in half a second. This difference may not seem like much, but it can increase over time. If you speak for five minutes, you will likely say twice as many words as the slow speaker.

Additionally, if you are used to hearing the average person speak quickly, you may find adjusting to slower speech patterns difficult. Slow speakers can often be frustrating for natives who speak faster, who may find themselves impatient or lost.

The good news is that you can learn to speak slower if necessary, no matter your natural speech rate.

Just remember to take your time and focus on speaking rather than worrying about the number of words you say. With practice, you can find the perfect balance for you.

How Confident You Feel

Your confidence level also has a huge effect on your speaking speed. If you feel confident, you’ll naturally speak slower and more evenly than if you feel insecure.

If you are nervous, you are more likely to rush your speech with faster-than-average speaking speed and trip over your words. A good speaker can control their speed and use it to their advantage.

World Fastest Speaker

Stephen Peter Woodmore (13 December 1959 – 6 February 2023) was a British salesman recognized for his extraordinary speech speed, articulating at 637 words per minute (wpm) — four times faster than average.

From August 1990, he held the Guinness World Record for the world’s fastest talker, succeeding John Moschitta Jr. However, in 1995, Sean Shannon from Canada surpassed him with a speed of 655 wpm.

How Comfortable You Are With Public Speaking

Finally, your comfort level when speaking in public can significantly impact your speaking rate. If you are not used to being in front of large groups of people, you may struggle to keep up a steady pace, thus speaking faster and rushing your speech.

Good speakers, such as those from popular Ted talks, often have extensive practice and experience in public speaking , which has helped them become more comfortable and confident when addressing large audiences.

Tips To Improve The Speed Of How The Average Person Speaks

As you can see from our list above, several different aspects affect the speed of your speech. However, there are some simple things that you can do to improve your speaking rates.

Slow Down When Talking About Difficult Topics

When discussing difficult topics, such as politics or religion, it is important to think carefully about what you say. If you speak too quickly, you risk making mistakes and sounding awkward .

Instead, try to speak slowly and deliberately, and make sure that you pause between each sentence.

Practice Before Giving Presentations

Practice makes perfect, and this applies to speaking as well. If you plan on giving a presentation, practice speaking slowly and pausing frequently.

Avoid rushing through your speech and focus on getting all your points across without any mistakes. This will help you feel more confident and relaxed and allow you to speak more easily.

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Practice Reading Out Loud

Reading aloud is one of the best ways to improve your talking speed because it forces you to slow down and pay attention to how you speak, especially when reading complicated words.

It also helps you to learn to control your breathing , another factor affecting your speaking speed.

Speak Clearly And Slowly

You should always aim to speak slowly and comfortably—even if you are nervous. If you speak too fast, you are more likely than ever to trip over your words, increasing your stress levels and mental fatigue.

As we mentioned earlier, nerves can cause you to breathe faster, so take note of your breath rate and try to slow it down slightly.

Take Deep Breaths

Taking deep breaths before talking will help you relax and give you time to prepare for your presentation. People speak more quickly when nervous or anxious, so it is essential to stay calm.

If you are tackling complex content, it can be helpful to slow down your thoughts by taking a few moments to pause and think about what you want to say before speaking. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure you say what you want.

Taking deep breaths will also help you calm down, reduce the chances of you tripping over your words, and maintain a regular speaking rate.

Why Does Speaking Speed Matter?

When you are speaking publicly, the speed of your speech is important and can offer you several advantages when delivering a speech. These include:

Increasing Your Credibility

If you have a high speaking rate, you risk sounding like you are trying to convince everyone around you that you know what you are talking about.

Many speakers would want to avoid this, but if you speak at an appropriate pace, you can be seen as credible and trustworthy.

Radio hosts and TED Talk speakers are known for speaking slowly and deliberately, which helps them engage the audience and build trust .

Improving Your Audience’s Attention Span

Speaking too quickly can cause your audience to lose interest. They may find themselves nodding off or looking bored, meaning they won’t pay close attention to what you say.

By contrast, speaking slowly lets them listen carefully and absorb everything you say.

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Avoiding Slips Of The Tongue

Speaking too quickly can make you more likely to slip up and accidentally say something embarrassing.

For example, if you talk about your favorite movie and say, “I love watching movies with my friends,” you could say, “I love watching movies alone.” This slip-up is unacceptable, and it is easy to see why.

FAQs: Average Words Per Minute Speaking

How fast does the average podcaster speak.

The average podcaster speaks approximately 150 to 160 words per minute, while the average professional speaker is slightly higher at 167 WPM (words per minute).

How Fast Does the Average Person Talk?

The average person speaks at a rate of approximately 125 to 150 words per minute.

How many words is a 5 minute speech?

A 5-minute speech would be around 750 to 800 words using the average speaking rate.

Is 100 words per minute fast speaking?

Speaking at 100 WPM is slightly below the average conversational rate, so it’s not considered fast.

Is 150 wpm speaking fast?

Speaking at 150 WPM is about average for most people, especially in presentations and general conversations.

Is speaking 200 words a minute fast?

Speaking at 200 WPM is faster than average and is typically seen in enthusiastic or rapid conversations.

How long is a 700 word speech?

A 700-word speech would last roughly 4.5 to 5 minutes at an average speaking rate.

Is 150 words per minute good for a speech?

Yes, 150 WPM is a good rate for a speech as it’s comfortable for listeners and ensures clarity.

Is it possible to speak 300 words per minute?

Speaking at 300 WPM is extremely fast. While some individuals, like certain record-holders, can achieve it, it’s beyond the average speaking rate for most people and can challenge comprehension.

How long is a 2 minute speech?

A 2-minute speech is typically 300 to 320 words, based on an average speaking rate of 150-160 words per minute (WPM).

Final Thoughts On How Many Words You Can Say Per Minute

Your speaking speed isn’t fixed; it can change with time. Utilizing our guidelines, you can determine your words-per-minute rate and refine your speech to be more composed, captivating, and effective for your listeners.

Other sources :

• Science Focus

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How Fast Does the Average Person Speak?

There are several reasons why you may be asking how many words a minute the average person speaks (you can get an estimate on how long it will take to say what you have written with WordCounter’s Speaking Time” detail ). You may just be curious and enjoy trivia. You may have to make a speech and you want to get an idea of how long your presentation should take. Maybe you’ve been told you talk to fast or too slowly, and you’re wondering what speed you should be shooting at. There are plenty of legitimate reasons to want to know how fast the average person speaks, but the actual answer isn’t black and white.

It’s never satisfying when you ask a question wanting a straight forward answer only to get “That depends” as the answer, but there are a lot of details that have an impact on this question. For example, if English is your first language, you probably speak faster than the average second-language English speaker. If you’re excited, hurried or nervous, you’ll also tend to speak faster. On the other hand, if you’re very relaxed, tired or bored, you speak more slowly. Even regional differences exist. Fast-moving New Yorkers speak faster than other Americans.

Having said that, there really is an average speaking speed. Most people speak at an average speed of four to five syllables per second. Most words are two to three syllables long, giving you the answer that the average person speaks approximately 100 – 130 words per minute. A professional voice over artist usually uses 150 to 160 words per minute. An auctioneer, on the other hand, does a rapid fire 250 to 400 words per minute. Those, however, are exceptions. When you’re just having a chat, you’ll usually speak at a rate of 110 to 130 words per minute. This number can be important to know if you are ever in the position to give a speech .

How many words does the average person say per day?

Just to take this to the next level, let’s look at how many words the average person says per day. Assuming that you have a job where you work with other people, the number of words you speak every day ranges from 7,000 to 20,000. Assuming you’re just using a chatty tone and aren’t an auctioneer, you probably spend 18 to 180 minutes a day talking.

As you might expect, men use fewer words than women do, but you might be surprised to know both men and women use the same number of “meaningful words” to communicate something important. In other words, women tend to use more ‘filler words’ when they speak than men.

Does your speaking speed really matter?

Although you probably shouldn’t focus on your spoken word count per minute, you won’t be a good speaker if you speak either too slowly or too fast. Have you ever listened to a presentation by someone whose words just seem to tumble out in a rapid-fire way? It can be difficult to keep up with them or to remember what they said. On the other end, slow speakers can rapidly become boring as they drone on and on. The mind wanders, and once again, the message doesn’t come across as it should.

Listen to radio talk show hosts. You’ll notice that the speed they’re talking varies depending on what they are talking about and what mood they are conveying. They vary both speed and tone to keep listening interesting. Although most people do this automatically, you may have to teach yourself if you’re a naturally speedy or naturally slow talker – especially if you have to speak in public.

Although listening to a recording of your own voice is many times a bit of a weird feeling, it’s the only way you can really understand what your talking speed is like from a listener’s perspective. Try it, decide how you can improve, and then record yourself again and listen to the playback.

Talking speed and the power of words

Listen to powerful speakers who have their audiences on the edge of their seats. The speed they use adds to the power of the words they say. When they talk fast, you can feel the urgency and excitement. When they slow down, you can sense that something momentous is being said. You’ll also ‘hear’ the punctuation marks as they pause between phrases or adjust the tone of their voices. Timing and delivery are an art that not everyone can master, but if we pay attention, there’s no reason we can’t improve.

(Photo courtesy of Brisbane City Council )

I have worked in call centers before and the speed of speaking is something that they train you on. If you talk too fast, then you can confuse and overwhelm people, but if you speak too slowly, then you can lose their attention and their patience. I tend to be a really quick speaker so this was difficult for me to learn at first, especially since I was so nervous about speaking to strangers. lol

I think this will depend on how stressed or nervous someone is. If you are calm it is easy to speak at a slow and understandable speed but the moment you add stress it can become almost impossible to understand someone.

Working with people most of the day the most important thing I have noticed is that as soon as you speak calmly. They tend to listen and understand more. I think it is nearly impossible to determine how fast the average person speaks because everyone speaks at different speeds.

That is what i was looking for

One point that this article doesn’t address is the language the person is speaking. I find that people of certain languages speak a lot faster than people who use other languages. For example, Spanish speakers seem to speak a much faster than English speakers.

I taught Sunday School to kids, half of whom were bilingual in Spanish. I did an experiment with them once, and yes, the *do* speak faster in Spanish than in English. When I told them the results, they told me that they already knew that. But why is it so? With the trilling of “r”s and other Spanish sounds that seem to take more work to pronounce, not to mention that more complex conjugation of verbs, it would seem to me that the opposite ought to be true. English is my second language. However, when I visited Budapest as a middle-aged adult, I thought that it seemed that Hungarians talked faster because my proficiency in my “mother tongue” is only at a grade school level. And Hungarian conjugation is *crazy*, plus it has sounds that no native American speaker can handle. I don’t have problems with it; a Budapest police officer was surprised to discover (when I handed her my passport) that I was an American citizen; she couldn’t tell from my accent, and congratulated me as she handed me my traffic ticket 🙁 . Time to do another experiment…

This response is many years later than the comment but remains true. Many languages do sound fast but in fact, all languages take about the same length of time to convey the same message. Yes, German written language is usually more ‘text dense’ on the page but comes out in the same amount of time as it would in English, Chinese, etc. However, for clutter, Tagalog from the Philippines is the hardest for me to ‘hear’.

Arrived here looking for a for a “word counting” system. A device that will tell you how many words you have spoken in a period of time. It says 100+ a minute,. 7-20 thousand daily. A WORD document will tell you how many written words are in your publication. Sheet music will tell you how many musical notes. A time piece the seconds, minutes, hours, days, etc. A ruler lengths. A calculator numbers. ETC. BUT, how many words did your brain, larynx, tongue, lips, send via Vibrational Energy into the Earthly/Universal plasma of reality Yesterday? Who else is interested? If there is no device to do so, can one be invented? Who has the “biggest mouth?”. Do you ever shut up? Can I get a minute of silence. What do you do in a public library, when you are required to be silent? How about a Movie Theater? When you are alone? If you move your jaw too much, you get those lines from your lips to your jaw! Will you give my ears wrestling? SO how many words did I just type? I am a professional author, so Words are my income.

Would love to use such an app – maybe added function in dictaphone type app on one’s cellphone?

would love to know how to speed up speech after brain injury

Would love to use such an app !

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What is the Average Speaking Rate?

What’s the average speaking rate ? Is it better to speak faster or is is better to speak slower?

In this article, we answer these questions and look at the factors which influence your speaking rate , a critical component of your delivery.

• Speech Pauses
• Filler Words (um, ah)
• Speaking Rate
• Vocal Volume
• Vocal Projection
• Vocal Strength Exercises

How to calculate your speaking rate

The most common way to express one’s speaking rate is in words per minute (wpm). To calculate this, simply take the total number of words spoken and divide by the number of minutes it took you to speak them.

Speaking Rate (wpm) = Total words / # of minutes

Another way to measure speaking rate is in syllables per minute (spm):

Speaking Rate (spm) = Total syllables / # of minutes

Why syllables per minute? Not all words are equal. Consider these two sentences:

• Modern readability tests are designed to indicate comprehension difficulty when reading a passage of contemporary academic English. (17 words; 41 syllables)
• Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country. (17 words; 19 syllables)

If you were to speak these two sentences at the same rate in words per minute, the first passage would seem considerably faster because you are saying more.

Despite the sensibility of using syllables/minute, the words/minute measure is more commonly used, because it is generally easier to calculate.

How to determine your speaking rate

A really quick estimate of your speaking rate can be obtained by timing yourself while reading a selection of text with a known word count. Then, simply calculate using the method above.

But, this is not really your speaking rate. It’s your reading rate . Even if you read out loud, it’s not the same thing as a speaking rate.

The best way to determine your speaking rate is to time yourself delivering a real speech with a real audience. (Video helps — you can count your words from it too.)

What is the average speaking rate?

The average speaking rate will vary across languages and situations. But, rather than dodging the question entirely, let’s come up an estimate given a fairly narrow speaking situation —  TED talks  — which we often study in Six Minutes  speech critiques.

I analyzed 9 TED talks which have been critiqued on Six Minutes . These talks ranged from just under 7 minutes in length to just under 20 minutes. Some speakers used visuals, some did not. Their topics were widely variable. [Click the links in the table below to view these speeches and read the critiques. Note that the Steve Jobs talk was not delivered at a TED conference, but is included on the TED website.]

• For these 9 talks, the average speaking rate is 163 words per minute .
• Two thirds of the talks are clustered in a narrow range between 153 and 168 words per minute.
• Remember that this average and range do not necessarily apply to all speaking situations.

One can also calculate the speaking rate for the 9 TED talks in syllables per minute, and these results are shown below, sorted in the same order as in the words/minute chart above.

• The most notable difference using the syllables/minute measure is that of Majora Carter. She has a much higher syllables/word count (1.62) compared to the others, which all fall between 1.43 and 1.54. More frequent use of longer words is one factor which contributes to my perception that she’s talking too fast.

What influences your overall speaking rate?

There are many factors which influence your overall speaking rate:

• Your normal speaking rate This is a product of your birth, your culture, and your history (family, profession, etc.) Some people talk faster. Some people talk slower. Neither is inherently  good or bad .
• Nervousness and stress Speaking under pressure tends to make you speak faster. I am not immune to this trait. If I’m speaking with notes of any kind, I’ll often write “SLOW DOWN” in red ink in the margin as a reminder.
• Mental fatigue If you are tired, you will tend to speak slower. You’ll also tend to make more mistakes which further slows your effective speaking rate.
• Complexity of the words If you’re measuring speaking rate in words per minute, then longer words will usually slow down your speaking rate.
• Complexity of content Longer sentences and more complex speech content means more pauses are necessary, and this will slow down your speaking rate, too. This is desirable because it helps your audience — they need more time to mentally process longer sentences and more complex content. However, it would help them more to simplify your content and shorten your sentences.
• Verbal pauses Insertion of natural pauses in your verbal delivery will slow your speaking rate, but the gains in understandability are worth it!
• Extra pauses induced by you Every time you stop to checking your notes, think to search for a word, show a prop or slide, or demonstrate something, your speaking rate drops. Often, the benefits of doing these things outweighs the drawbacks. [Some of these pauses can be reduced by more thorough preparation.]
• Extra pauses induced by your audience When your audience applauds or laughs, this slows you down too. Larger audiences tend to induce larger delays.
• Extra pauses induced by the environment These are harder to predict, but you should allow for them. For example, loud noises outside the room or other distractions may force you to pause, or repeat yourself.

All but the last two factors are completely within your control, and even those last two factors can be predicted somewhat.

Is it better to speak faster or is is better to speak slower?

It depends, but if you are anywhere close to the range of the speakers analyzed above (133 to 188 words/minute), you’re fine.

Generally, slower is more intelligible than faster speech. Appropriate pauses allow your audience time to digest what you’ve said and begin to process it. However, instead of worrying too much about your numerical speaking rate, it probably would be better to focus on improving your clarity and lowering the complexity of your language.

• Clarity : Good enunciation, sharp pronunciation, and proper stresses will produce clear language and make it easy for your audience to hear each word.
• Complexity : By simplifying words and simplifying your sentences by eliminating unnecessary words, you become much more understandable.

Vary your speaking rate!

No matter what your average speaking rate is over the entire speech, you should always vary it within a speech. Don’t deliver sentence after sentence at the same exact rate. Varying your speech rate adds life to your vocal delivery, and allows you to convey both meaning and emotional content.

For example, you can speak a little faster to convey excitement, or a little slower to reflect sadness or confusion.

Final Thoughts

I know very few people who speak considerably too slow, but many who speak too fast. Because of the common tendency to put too much content into our presentations, we tend to speak at a blazing speed to get through it all. So, in general, slow down!

Like many delivery characteristics, the best way to be aware of whether you are doing it well is to solicit feedback. Ask trusted audience members whether your pace was too slow, too fast, or just right.

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27 comments.

Great post Andrew. I love the analysis. Research shows that Australians generally speak slower than other english speakers, and I recently ( http://wp.me/p2k3hy-Ev ) suggested that we speak around 100 wpm. Quite a difference! Despite this, I have a flash card that I take into every high school speech class and I use it a LOT. It says “slow down”.

Fascinating! I wasn’t aware of the speaking rate difference in Australians. Do you have a reference to the research handy?

it is said that the normalspeaking rate is 140_160 word per minute

Thanks for this post Andrew. I think it also depends on the nature of the speech. My experience in Toastmasters tells me that, when telling stories and trying to convey emotion, I’ll speak much slower than when speaking about plain facts and figures. Is this your case as well?

Yes, it certainly depends on the nature of the overall speech and, as you have pointed out, on the nature of what you are presenting at a given time within the speech.

I agree that emotional content and stories (which have more dramatic pauses) tend to be delivered slower than factual details, but even that isn’t a hard rule.

Andrew, As always I appreciate your thoroughness and your practical approach to dealing with the challenges of public speaking. I agree with this article and thank you for your approach using syllables rather than words to assess rate of speech. One thought, another situation affecting ROS is the fact that people may not practice speaking at the slower pace often enough. This is where it is helpful to read a piece aloud that has the desired number of words in it (or syllables) and time yourself to be able to read it at the correct pace. If you do that often enough, you get the “feel” of that pace and can more easily duplicate it under pressure. And you’ll also notice that when you slow down you are more able to add nuances and variety, making the slower pace actually MORE interesting than the faster one, in case you are worried about boring people when speaking more slowly.

Up to now, I’ve never seen syllables used to express speaking speed, but it makes such sense – as the comparison of sentences with the same word count but vastly different syllable counts clearly shows in this post.

A while ago, I published a piece about using fewer syllables when speaking. It lists 14 terms that people often use when speaking (or writing), and it gives low-syllable equivalents (up to 80% shorter) for each term: http://remotepossibilities.wordpress.com/2011/12/31/minimise-blur-firstframework-part-1m/#bb3

If you make simple changes like those, you can avoid rushing, and your audience can absorb your message far better.

Here’s another tip related to speaking rate, which I’ve found really handy when listening to recorded speeches or webinars: By using Windows Media Player (or a similar tool), you can play recordings slower or faster than normal speed.

Typically, speakers talk too fast. So you can use Media Player to slow down the recording, and/or you can keep clicking Pause to give yourself time to digest what was just said.

Conversely, for slow or well-paced speakers, you can play a recording at (say) 150% speed, so for instance you can hear a 1-hour webinar in only 40 minutes. What a timesaver! (I’m in Australia like Claire, above, but the slowest speaker I’ve come across is actually a well-known CEO from the US. In a live speech, the slow speed lets you absorb what he’s saying, but in a recording it can get frustrating unless you speed it up.)

If your version of Media Player’s like mine, you’ll find the speed control by choosing View > Enhancements > Play Speed Settings. (In Media Player on Windows 7, instead you choose Play > Play Speed, which gives you just 3 speeds to choose from.)

I hope you find that as handy as I have!

Thanks for the tip, Craig. I’ll have to try that out.

Andrew, This is extremely helpful for novice public speakers. I am forever being asked how much can I say in a minute? What’s interesting about the numbers for me is that they look so high. Once you allow time for audience reaction and time to pause to let your points sink in, I always find that even the fastest public speakers struggle to get much more than 140 words per minute. 150 tops. It’s our nervous novices that speak at 180. I’d be interested to know: Why is it that these experienced hands say so many words? Does their experience mean that they can command an audience’s attention and compress more content into less time? Or would they be better if the slowed down?

Without a great deal more data, it’s hard to answer your questions. However, I think it is fair to say that these TED speakers are able to deliver at a higher words/minute rate because [1] they are extremely well-prepared, and thus rarely make any verbal slips which would slow them down and [2] the culture of TED talks tends to allow for a pretty high information density.

As for whether these talks would be better if slowed down, I leave it up to the audience.

As a trainer of professional actors I can assure you that there seems to be more of a correlation of slower speed with “reading” and faster speed with passion. Perhaps the TED speakers are a bit more passionate about their ideas?

Wow. I couldn’t disagree more. If a person is aligning operative words then TEMPO has almost no bearing on the speech. If someone is passionate then they are going to speak at a faster rate (SPM), but they will also hit words in such a way as to convey meaning. Anything between 160-210 (wpm) is common in everyday speech. Why should conveying ideas in a “speech” be different?

Love your pages! However, please take caution when using the word ” slower”. It is an adjective. When speaking of how something is done, the proper use is ” more slowly”. 😉

I agree with you SO much that I filed a federal lawsuit asking court and other public officers to SLOWDOWN. My lawsuit is called Ovitsky v. Washington County, etc. It’s less about money and more about understanding what people are speaking, for me most of the time it is “too fast,” quite literally. Federal relay types about 60 wpm. Court officers speak 100+ wpm. If I can walk away with one non financial gain, it would be a federal order asking the locals to slow down and also asking FCC to hire faster typists to transcribe calls for deaf. I write for myself, I cannot read 100+ wpm, I can read about 80 wpm and I can hear maybe 60 wpm with pauses and repeats, which is why I use deaf telecom, I need a SLOWDOWN more than I need the visual but after seven years, I’m accustomed to doing both. I am in Oregon, not far from where ye hail from? Au Canada? In any event, thank you for your wonderful article and I appreciate your posting it. I re-posted it on my FaceBook page with a link back to this site.

Hi, Andrew, Congratulations for your blog! It’s terrific! I also write about public communication, but I focus on phonetics. I’ll keep reading your posts, thanks!! Carolina (Madrid, Spain)

Ray Hull, Ph.D. recommended 124 wpm.

That was great to read your research Please advise the top 10 speech or speaker in a world

Many Thanks

Nice article, I came here looking to learn what speed I wanted to be able to play guitar at. I was wondering if you might have an article you could direct me to which delves deeper into the mood tone/frequency or as you put it an article that tells me what speed rates convey what sorts of meanings and emotions?

Andrew, thank you! One of the 1st training segments of Accent training ( Not “accent reduction” – rather “Accent Addition”) is to train folks how to monitor their speaking rate. We do this by doing an analysis of TED speakers on the # of words per minute ( WPM). The Syllables Per Minute (SPM) analysis that you have done is phenomenal. A person cannot change how they move their speaking/articulator-voice muscles until they can be attuned to and control the speed of their speaking movements. Additionally, they cannot be attuned to how their listeners are responding or understanding if they cannot use effective pauses. Your analysis of the WPM and SPM of top TED speakers helps others to strategically garner specific tactics to be more effective speakers. Again, Thank you!!!

Thank you for this post Andrew! I learned a lot of details about public speaking while browsing through your blog. It actually inspired me to create an app which estimates the speaker’s speaking rate, pauses, pitch and volume (a digital presentation coach). Now available for free on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/quantle/id1241930976 Thanks again for your valuable pages!

a very good job. I hope you will creat a a android version of the app. Thank you.

Hi Andrew. Thank you for your very interesting post on speaking rate. I am interested in doing this at a more academic level, in a paper, for instance. Do you have any papers/references on calculating speaking rate? Thank you in advance for your help.

Interesting that the fact of deafness are not being dealt with enough. Some deaf persons (especially older persons) has big difficulties in following newsreaders. It must be remembered that with the years all functions slow down a little bit with extreme cases here and there.Also older persons tend to listen more to radio and tv and find it very difficult in understanding than in the past.I am very fond of news channels but find that some readers (especially women ) are faster readers than their male colleges.To all out there please speak slower!

Do you have DVDs to help with practice sounds

Recently I reviewed a video where the speaker talked at 230 wpm! (I linked to this post for comparison with other talks.)

You might think that’d be WAY too fast, but in that case I think the speaker pulled it off.

If done well, one benefit of speaking so fast is that it conveys passion for the topic. See what you think…

The reason why Majora Carter’s spw is so much higher is because she says ‘sustainability’, ‘environmental’ and ‘sustainable development’ a lot.

You could also say that: • the avg wpm of those “2/3 between 153 and 168 wpm” is 160; and that • the avg spm of those talks is 274, and 237 amongst without the 3 fast-talking women and slomo Gore.

Personally, I’m more interested in how fast can people listen. Any clues?

Recent Tweets

163 words per minute is an average speaking rate for presentations. http://t.co/Tknk8f0A0O #speaking — @anthea_rowe Sep 10th, 2015

This was helpful to me as I’m preparing a talk: What is the Average Speaking Rate? https://t.co/oA8Scl26sx by @6minutes — @cesarbrea Oct 19th, 2015

@AlexWattsEsq about 90 hours by my very unscientific estimate. Used average speaking rate here: https://t.co/8CHXhuUt5K — @InfiniteClock Dec 2nd, 2015

What is the Average Speaking Rate? Very insightful 🙂 @GitteWBruhn and @SCThatcher https://t.co/UmmT6sa4N3 by @6minutes — @ClaireLauper Dec 18th, 2015

@grace_elliot Varies quite a lot. Some useful info here https://t.co/lXLdUZty91 😊 — @DamianSomebody Apr 20th, 2016

The average speaking rate of English as 1st Language TED speakers in Words & syllables https://t.co/ekitKC9jw6 — @accentcoach Jun 14th, 2016

#TuesdayTips Too fast, too slow, or just right? Good article by @6minutes on pace of speech. https://t.co/hPXErFUsVX — PitchVantage (@pitchvantage) Jul 5th, 2016

.@6minutes Found today. Looking forward to following. https://t.co/yWCQwBzJjg — @realestaterossi Nov 19th, 2016

¿sabías que la velocidad media de hablar óptima en un discurso está entre 153 y 168 palabras? #apor1600kwds https://t.co/bbwrBgo7BU — @DanielRDelPino Oct 17th, 2017

What is the Average Speaking Rate? https://t.co/Th6LajR5J8 — @BigDru Jul 6th, 2018

1 Blog Link

Hearing | Sherry Chandler — Nov 17th, 2012

Featured Articles

• Majora Carter (TED, 2006) Energy, Passion, Speaking Rate
• Hans Rosling (TED, 2006) 6 Techniques to Present Data
• J.A. Gamache (Toastmasters, 2007) Gestures, Prop, Writing
• Steve Jobs (Stanford, 2005) Figures of speech, rule of three
• Al Gore (TED, 2006) Humor, audience interaction
• Dick Hardt (OSCON, 2005) Lessig Method of Presentation

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Unraveling the Pace of Speech: Understanding Words Spoken per Minute

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Words spoken per minute (WPM) is a metric that measures the rate at which individuals articulate verbal communication. Whether in everyday conversation, public speaking, or broadcasting, the pace at which words are delivered can profoundly influence comprehension, engagement, and overall communication effectiveness.

Defining Words Spoken per Minute: Breaking Down the Metric

In the realm of communication, words spoken per minute (WPM) serves as a fundamental metric for quantifying the rate at which individuals articulate verbal content. Whether engaging in conversation, delivering a speech, or recording audio, understanding WPM provides valuable insights into the pace and flow of spoken communication. In this section, we will delve into the intricacies of WPM, breaking down the metric to elucidate its significance and application across various contexts.

Understanding Words Spoken per Minute:

At its core, words spoken per minute refers to the average number of words uttered by an individual within a span of 60 seconds. This metric serves as a quantitative measure of speech rate, reflecting the speed at which verbal communication is delivered. By calculating WPM, one can gauge the tempo, fluency, and efficiency of spoken discourse, providing valuable feedback for speakers and listeners alike.

Calculation Methodology:

The calculation of WPM is relatively straightforward, involving the determination of the total number of words spoken within a given time frame, typically one minute. This can be achieved through manual counting or automated transcription methods, depending on the context and available resources. Once the total word count is obtained, it is divided by the duration of time (in minutes) to yield the WPM rate.

Significance in Communication:

The concept of WPM holds significant implications for effective communication across a wide range of contexts. In public speaking, for example, an optimal speech rate can enhance audience engagement, comprehension, and retention of key messages. Similarly, in interpersonal communication, the pace of speech can influence social dynamics, rapport-building, and the overall quality of interaction.

Variations in Speech Rate:

It is important to note that speech rate can vary widely among individuals and across different situations. Factors such as linguistic proficiency, cultural background, emotional state, and conversational context can all influence WPM. Additionally, variations in speaking style, such as pauses, intonation, and articulation, can impact the overall pace and rhythm of speech.

Application in Language Learning:

In the field of language learning and education, WPM serves as a valuable tool for assessing oral proficiency and fluency. Language learners can track their progress over time by measuring changes in speech rate and striving to increase their WPM through practice and exposure to authentic spoken language.

Technological Advancements:

With the advent of digital recording and transcription technologies, the measurement of WPM has become more accessible and efficient. Automated speech recognition software and online tools enable real-time tracking of speech rate, facilitating analysis and feedback for speakers seeking to improve their communication skills.

The Average Words Spoken per Minute: Benchmarks and Variations

Words spoken per minute (WPM) serves as a valuable metric for evaluating the pace and fluency of verbal communication. Understanding the average WPM across different contexts provides valuable insights into speech patterns, comprehension levels, and communication dynamics. In this section, we will explore the benchmarks and variations in average WPM, shedding light on the factors that influence speech rate and the implications for effective communication.

Average WPM Benchmarks:

While the average WPMcan vary widely depending on factors such as language, culture, and individualspeaking style, several benchmarks are commonly used as reference points forevaluating speech rate. In casual conversation, for example, the average WPM typicallyfalls within the range of 120 to 150 words per minute. This pace allows forcomfortable comprehension and engagement without overwhelming listeners withrapid speech.

Variations across Contexts:

The average WPM canvary significantly across different communication contexts, reflecting thespecific demands and dynamics of each situation. In public speaking settings,such as lectures or presentations, speakers often aim for a slightly higher WPMto maintain audience interest and momentum. Speech rates in these contexts mayrange from 150 to 200 words per minute or higher, depending on the complexityof the content and the preferences of the audience.

Influencing Factors:

Several factors caninfluence variations in average WPM, including:

Language and Linguistic Features: Languages with different phonetic structures and grammatical conventions may have distinct speech rates. For example, languages with more complex syllable structures or grammatical inflections may have lower average WPM compared to languages with simpler phonologies.

Cultural Norms: Cultural norms and communication styles can also impact speech rate. In some cultures, rapid speech may be perceived as enthusiastic or engaging, while in others, a slower pace may be preferred for emphasis and clarity.

Individual Speaking Style: Each individual has a unique speaking style that contributes to variations in WPM. Factors such as vocal tone, articulation, and rhythm can influence the overall pace and fluency of speech.

Contextual Demands: The demands of the communication context, such as the complexity of the topic, the size of the audience, and the time constraints, can also affect speech rate. Speakers may adjust their WPM accordingly to accommodate these factors and optimize communication effectiveness.

Implications for Communication:

Understanding average

WPM and its variations is crucial for effective communication across diversecontexts. Speakers can use knowledge of speech rate benchmarks to tailor theirdelivery to the needs and preferences of their audience, ensuring clarity,engagement, and comprehension. Likewise, listeners can benefit from awarenessof average WPM to better interpret and process verbal information in real-time.

Factors Influencing Speech Rate: Understanding the Dynamics

Identifying key factors that influence speech rate, such as cognitive processing speed, language proficiency, and emotional state.

Exploring how situational factors, including audience size, speaking environment, and time constraints, can impact speech rate.

Discussing individual differences in speech rate and how they relate to personality traits, communication style, and cultural background.

The Art of Effective Communication: Matching Pace with Purpose

Emphasizing the importance of pacing in effective communication and message delivery.

Providing tips and strategies for adjusting speech rate to match communication goals and audience preferences.

Discussing the role of vocal dynamics, including pitch, tone, and rhythm, in enhancing speech clarity and engagement.

Harnessing Speech Rate in Public Speaking: Strategies for Success

Offering guidance for public speakers on optimizing speech rate for maximum impact and audience engagement.

Discussing techniques for modulating pace, including pausing for emphasis, varying speed for emphasis, and adjusting to audience feedback.

Exploring the benefits of practicing and refining speech rate through rehearsal and feedback to enhance overall speaking effectiveness.

The Impact of Technology: Adapting Speech Rate in the Digital Age

Examining the influence of technology on speech rate, including the rise of digital communication platforms and social media.

Discussing how digital communication tools, such as texting and instant messaging, have affected speech patterns and language use.

Exploring the challenges and opportunities of adapting speech rate for virtual communication and online platforms.

The Science of Speech Rate: Insights from Linguistics and Psychology

Delving into the scientific research on speech rate conducted in fields such as linguistics, psychology, and communication studies.

Investigating theories and models of speech production and perception that shed light on the mechanisms underlying speech rate variation.

Exploring the implications of research findings for understanding language processing, communication disorders, and human cognition.

Practical Applications and Implications: Harnessing Speech Rate for Success

Providing real-world examples of how understanding and controlling speech rate can enhance communication effectiveness in various contexts.

Discussing the implications of speech rate for professional success, interpersonal relationships, and personal development.

Offering practical tips and strategies for individuals to optimize their speech rate and improve overall communication skills.

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Words spoken per minute serves as a crucial metric for understanding the dynamics of verbal communication and optimizing message delivery across diverse contexts. Whether in casual conversation, public speaking, or digital communication, the pace at which words are spoken profoundly influences comprehension, engagement, and overall communication effectiveness. By unraveling the intricacies of speech rate and mastering the art of verbal velocity, individuals can enhance their communication skills, connect more effectively with others, and convey their messages with clarity, impact, and resonance.

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Average Words Per Minute Speaking (15 Experts Examples)

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What is the average words per minute speaking rate?

According to the National Center for Voice and Speech , the average rate for English speakers in the US is about 150 wpm. The average speaking rate can change for your project. Especially some professionals are known to speak faster purposeful ly.

Average words per minute speaking rates vary for different jobs and projects:

As you can see, presentations and conversational word per minute rates are lower. Those are situations where we care deeply about being understood. But also we have pauses and body language to capture the attention. 

Ebook publishers recommend the 150-160 wpm, which is close to the maximum speaking rate that also ensures full comprehension. 

150-160 words per minute (WPM) is also recommended for podcasts, radio hosts, and even YouTubers. This should be average for an entire show, while some of the passages should use a faster speaking rate while others slower. A smart adjustment will break the monotony and increase listener engagement.

On the fastest spectrum, there are auctioneers and commentators. Their job is to increase the hype, convey passion, and trigger a lot of emotions. 

We also cover the topic of how fast should you talk on a recording in this podcast episode:

Examples of average words per minute speaking rates by public figures

Analyzing transcripts of great and popular TED talks given by public figures, we checked how fast they talk. Talks are linked so you can check them, and they cover a variety of topics.

For these 14 talks, the average speaking rate is 167 words per minute. 

The Steve Jobs talk was not delivered as part of a TED conference, but it is included on the TED website. Above all, it is an excellent example of attention capturing and message delivery.

The fastest talker on the list, Tony Robbins, still delivers his message with clarity, and we can understand what he is saying. He achieves this by clearly articulating his words and using a simple language. His clarity compensates for his speed.

Your’ words per minute speaking rate should be perfectly adjusted to how fast people can listen and comprehend. If it is going to be too fast, you are going to lose a listener. If you are going to be too slow, their thoughts will drift away. The words per minute rate on your project should be just right.

The obvious question now is what is the “right” work per minute rate. In this article, we will discuss statistics, real-life examples, and present recommendations for making the most engaging recording.

Most people can talk quite fast when needed. Stress and other factors also can make us speed up. But it is essential to focus and slow down to speak perfectly for our audience. But always speaking at the same rate can also be too monotonous.

Can you control how fast we speak?

Definitely yes. According to professional speech coach Joan Detz:

“President John F. Kennedy was a notoriously fast talker – often topping 200 words per minute. You certainly don’t want to be that extreme. But, in general, talking a bit fast is better than talking too slow. Why? Speed projects charisma. Slowness projects lethargy and can frustrate listeners.” – “It’s Not What You Say, It’s How You Say It.”

But for his most famous speech, his 1961 Inaugural Address, he slowed down significantly. He slowed his usually high speaking rate down to below 100 wpm. JFK projected command, vigor, and charisma. 

He achieved this using short sentences and action words. He had a focused message and he coveying it in an active voice.

JFK’s words per minute count was “Just Right” for the moment and the audience. Being this a live speech, he had some tools we don’t. He could pause, use facial expressions and body language, and keep attention focused on him. 

We can’t do this effectively during a voice-over, but there are methods to capture attention and reach optimal words per minute.

Is the average words per minute speaking rate important?

In short, yes, it is very important. Your rate of speech has an impact on how the audience perceives you and your message.

The speed of our speech affects comprehension, clarity, and customer experience.

• Comprehension is essential if you want your audio to be satisfying to your listeners and, most importantly if you genuinely want to help them. Working on improving your comprehension ensures that people that came looking for your show will find the answers quickly and won’t have to search the web for better and more valuable materials.
• With clarity , you increase your listeners’ focus, and you can help them learn and get a better result with your call to action. Clarity will allow you to get rid of the filler words. It keeps you focused on the topic. You will quickly cut away the redundant materials. 
• Customer experience will get you more good reviews, recommendations, and sales in the long run. 

When you nail your target WPM, you will start improving your language. You will remove empty words that don’t enhance meaning. Words that get overused are: literally, really, just, wrap my head around, etc.

Improved language, more precise communication, and clearer message simply mean there is more value in your podcast for your listeners.

How to calculate your average words per minute speaking rate?

Words per minute (wpm) is the most common way used to determine a speaking rate.

The calculation is simple and obvious. Just take the number of spoken words and divide by the number of minutes it took you to deliver the speech.

Speaking Rate (WPM) = Total words / number of minutes

There is one more way to calculate the speaking rate, but since it is harder to figure, it is not as popular as WPM. This other way is syllables per minute (SPM), and you get it by dividing the number of syllables spoken by the length of a speech.

Speaking Rate (SPM) = Total syllables / number of minutes

Let’s review this short example of how those numbers differ and what they can tell us about our speech.

• Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.
• Modern, sophisticated presenters using expressive vocabulary can project passion and enthusiasm, thus successfully increasing listeners’ engagement.

Both passages have 17 words. But the first one has 19 syllables while the second one has 45 syllables. If you speak them both at the same words per minute rate, the longer passage will appear faster because you are saying more.

Using shorter words can help you say more in the same amount of time without sounding rushed.

How to easily check your average words per minute speaking rate?

To do it exactly, you need to memorize a passage and record yourself. Make a few tries speaking faster and slower to get different WPMs and determine when you sound the best.

You can also approximate this by reading a passage. It, however, calculates reading and not speaking rate. The familiarity of the material can impact the reading rate, so take this under consideration.

Reading rate, however, can be useful if you will be relying a lot on the script.

What influences how fast you talk on your audio project?

Many factors influence how fast you can talk . The good thing is that you can easily control the majority of these factors and achieve the speed you need for the most significant impact. 

• Regular speaking rate – this is highly influenced by our culture, and how people talk around. Along with a speaking rate, also pronunciation gets shaped thought the course of our lives. Thankfully all this can be influenced by a conscious effort. 
• Fatigue – whenever you are tired, you will speak slower. This is a natural response of the brain that you slow down when you are tired. Not only speaking is impacted. The simple answer here is to schedule your recording sessions in advance so you will be well-rested.
• New and complex content – when you will be working off a script that was completed a long time ago and is no longer familiar to you and on top contains a lot of long and complicated words. You will deliver it much slower. To avoid it, simply rehearse before recording and simplify. You can streamline your recording but splitting long sentences and using a more straightforward language.

Alongside being relaxed and prepared, other techniques can also help you sound better. Even what you drink and at what time of the day you record your voice-over can have an impact. Check here for a full list of tips to sound better: vocal tips 

How to use pauses effectively for better content delivery?

Pauses are a great way to capture attention during a speech. You have to use them smartly and strategically to engage your audience fully. 

When you make natural pauses, you automatically slow down your average words per minute speaking rate. In return, you should get more clear delivery and capture listeners’ attention.

Using pauses during a recording is a bit different than when giving a live speech. For example, on a podcast, you can always remove unwanted stops and keep only those you wish to include.

In a recording, you should use pauses to:

• Indicate a change in tone or topic – use a pause if you want to change the mood from excitement to being more calm and reflective. Or use one if you will change what you are talking about and ease the progression of the story. Adding music can help with changing tone.
• Emphasize key points – if you are reaching a conclusion or discuss some turning point in your story, you can pause to show that a critical piece is going to be addressed. Use those pauses in each episode to highlight the value you are delivering.
• Improve clarity of your message – when you are getting into the most convoluted part of your episode, slow down. This will give time to your listeners to process and fully appreciate the most complex and difficult to follow part of your speech.

How to control your words per minute rate on your project?

Control your environment and record your project in a soundproofed recording room . Using a quiet studio and planning your recording sessions will allow you to avoid distractions. This will help you with your speaking rate since:

• Adding control removes stress – having a controlled environment, and the scheduled session will allow you to speak more freely as it will remove some pressure. This will enable you to talk faster.
• Controlling your environment removes distractions – a soundproofed room guarantees no outside noises will lose your focus and break your concentration.

Controlling your schedule and understanding how noisy is your surroundings can help you get better audio and speak at the desired WPM even if you don’t have a fully soundproofed studio. Simply follow our guidelines on how to record in a bad room .

Is it better to speak faster, or is it better to speak slower?

There is no gold standard. If you are anywhere between 140-170 WPM, you should sound great.

Generally, slower is more intelligible than faster speech. Appropriate pauses allow your audience time to digest what you’ve said and begin to process it. 

Instead of obsessing about WPM, make sure your overall delivery is on point.

Put additional effort into:

• Simplification – use simple language, eliminate filler words, remove complex vocabulary and phrases to become more understandable
• Clarity – focus on diction, removal of vocal inflection, sharp pronunciation, and breathing.

How to practice average words per minute speaking pace?

The simplest and most effective way to practice keeping a constant pace is by using a metronome. You can buy one online (it’s a cool office decoration) or simply download any free app for your phone.

The metronome’s role is to tick at a specific rate and provide you with a constant rhythm. This is just for practicing as if you would talk precisely to the beat of the metronome you would sound very monotone (like voice assistants do). 

But practicing with a metronome will help you to oscillate at your desired words per minute rate.

There are many free metronome apps for Apple and Android phones, so you won’t have any issues finding one (you don’t need the premium versions).

How to Use Rate of Speech Effectively?

There are two valuable studies to help you craft your voice that talk about precipitation formed based on a rate of speech.

• In 1976 psychologists looked at speech rate and persuasion and concluded that faster speakers (195 wpm) were more persuasive than slower speakers (102 wpm). The results of this study suggest that speech rate functions as a general cue that augments credibility. 
• However, in 1991 a study on rapid speech suggested a more complicated relationship. Researchers conclude that when messages were in general disagreement with the audience’s views (counter-attitudinal), fast-talking increased persuasion. On the other hand, when the audience inherently agreed with the message (pro-attitudinal), slow speech emerged as the most persuasive way of delivery.

There is only one thing to do: vary your speaking rate

Always vary your words per minute speaking rate within one recording.

Don’t deliver all the sentences at the same rate. It will improve your delivery, and allow you to convey both meaning and emotions. Adjust the speed to match what you want to project at the moment.

Varying your WPM will make your recording more interesting for the audience. Without pace variation, you will sound monotone.

Change your speed according to what you want your listeners to feel.

• Speaking fast expresses passion, urgency, excitement, and emotion
• Talking slow expresses importance, sadness, confusion, the seriousness of a point

Tip : There is one more trick I use to control better my talking speed. I manage how close or far I’m from my dynamic mic.

What Playback Speed Is Used for Podcasts?

Surveys show that one of the podcasting trends is that, an increasing number of listeners regularly use higher than 1x playback speed to listen to podcasts.

The podcast player Pocket Casts estimates the feature has saved its listeners a cumulative 2,849 years between 2015 and 2019.

It may be an indication that busy people actually may enjoy a bit higher than average WPM rate.

How long should your script be for the best words per minute impression?

From analyzing podcast listeners’ demographics and usage patterns, we know that people mostly listen to podcast shows lasting between 30 and 40 minutes.

Experiment and measure your time to find the best way for you but start with a script of about 150-160 words per minute. In this case, start and experiment with:

• 2000 words for 15 minutes episode
• 3000 words for 20 minutes episode
• 4500 words for 30 minutes episode

We know that people mostly listen to podcasts between 30 and 40 minutes, but also take under consideration their attention span.

TED talks aim to be about 18 minutes. According to TED’s chief Chris Anderson, it is “long enough to be serious and short enough to hold people’s attention.” 

Information have material simply is harder and harder to digest as it goes on, so it is less satisfying for the listeners.

It is essential to care about quality and user experience with controlling the WPM speed. There are also other ways to improve the quality of your show. Besides, words per minute control my two favorites are thorough idea research and getting the best podcasting gear .

In conclusion

• 150-160 words per minute rate is the most typical speed at which radio and podcast host speak
• Many good speakers on TED lecture also talk close to this rate
• There is no golden solution and many speakers successfully deliver messages speaking above this rate
• Vary your speaking rate to avoid becoming monotone
• Speak faster to show more excitement and enthusiasm and speak slower to show importance and focus
• Alongside WPM rate a good speaker should also focus on clarity and simplicity
• A most common technique to train speaking rate is practicing with a metronome
• If you want to speak clearly and at a constant rate make sure you are rested, prepared for the recording, familiar with the material and record in a controlled and soundproofed environment
• Currently, people often use faster playback speeds to listen to podcasts. Consider this trend and test out how your audience will react to you, talking 10-20% faster.

Did you measure you average words per minute speaking rate? What did you found to be most effective for your project?

About the Author

I'm the owner and creator of ImprovePodcast.com, the site dedicated to providing actionable solutions for podcast creators. My goal is helping people to develop their podcasts into effective marketing and sales tools.

Very helpful! Thanks. This will help me with my pacing and script preparation!

Very helpful. I’ve adjusted my words per minute based on this article! Thanks.

I have no idea when this was written, but it’s rare to be searching the internet for new and useful information. I searched for “How many words per minute for a podcast” hoping to come across something that I might be able to adapt to my question. Wow. This article is everything I was asking for and more. You list famous Ted Talk speakers (interesting my two favorite Simon and Tony are 170/180. I think I found my model). Thank you for the effort on this. I will subscribe to this site.

I’m always happy to help.

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Harmonizing the Art and Science of Vocal Expression

How Many Words Per Minute Speaking? Average, Fast & Slow

February 8, 2024 By David V. Risner Leave a Comment

Talking well isn’t about what you say, but how fast you say it. This “speed” is words per minute (WPM).

Choosing the right WPM is like finding the right volume – too fast and people get lost, too slow and they get bored.

It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. The best WPM depends on how fast you naturally speak.

In this article, unlock the secrets of effective communication . The words you choose and the pace you deliver them both matter!

How Many Words Per Minute Speaking

Curious how fast people talk? Turns out, we don’t all chat at the same speed!

Let’s explore why and see what makes us tick when it comes to talking speed.

Research Findings On The Average WPM

Have you ever been in a conversation and thought, “Is this pace normal ?” Well, researchers have been on the case!

– On average, folks tend to utter about 140-160 words per minute in a casual chit-chat. It’s the sweet spot where understanding meets comfort.

Fast Talkers: The Speed Racers

– On average, fast talkers zip through at a rapid-fire 170-190 words per minute.

– It’s like a verbal rollercoaster. Trilling but sometimes tricky to catch every detail.

Slow Talkers: The Turtles

– Slow talkers are like turtles. They take their time and choose their words.

– On average, they say 120-130 words per minute in conversation.

Even though they’re slow, they can be interesting to listen to. It’s because their words have more weight.

How Many Words In A 2 Minute Speech

Ever wondered how many words you should aim for in a 2-minute speech? Buckle up, let’s find the perfect length!

Average Words In 2 Minute Speech

– In a 2-minute speech, the average speaker can say 280-300 words to keep your audience hooked.

– This natural rhythm seems to strike the right balance between clarity and engagement.

Fast Talkers Words In 2 Minute

– The text talks about people who talk fast. It says that these people can speak 340-360 words in a 2-minute speech.

– If you talk fast, you can think of this as your chance to show off your skills!

Slow Talkers Words In 2 Minute

– Taking your time can be charming, letting your words land with impact.

– Most slow talkers speak 230-250 words in a 2-minute speech.

How Many Words In A 3 Minute Speech

Knowing how many words fit in 3 minutes can be helpful. Let’s break down how many words you can say in a 3 minute speech.

Average Words In 3 Minute Speech

– On average, people tend to speak at a pace of about 430-450 words in a 3 minute speech.

– Research shows that this is the sweet spot for keeping listeners engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

Fast Talkers Words In 3 Minute Speech

– Fast talkers zoom through their words at a pace of 510-530 words in a 3 minute speech.

– Some people talk fast . This can be because they’re excited, nervous, or naturally quick thinkers.

Slow Talkers Words In 3 Minute Speech

– Slow speakers are careful and thoughtful. They can speak at a pace of around 360-380 words in a 3 minute speech.

– Some folks prefer to do things at their own pace. Maybe they want to be extra careful, make their point clear , or just take it easy.

How Many Words In A 4 Minute Speech

Want to know how many words fit in a 4-minute speech without sounding fast or boring? Let’s explore the magic of words.

Research Findings On Average Words In 4 Minute Speech

– If you talk at a normal speed, your 4-minute speech should be around 590-610 words.

– Think of it like a relaxing walk in the park.

Fast Talkers Words In 4 Minute Speech

– Super-fast speakers can fly through a crazy 700-720 words in just 4 minutes!

– That’s faster than you can blink!

Slow Talkers Words In 4 Minute Speech

– If you speak slowly, your 4-minute speech will have about 480-500 words.

– Each word will be clear and easy to understand, like a treasure for your listeners .

How Many Words In A 5 Minute Speech

Wonder how many words to fit in a 5-minute speech? It’s like finding the perfect song length!

Research Findings On Average Words In 5 Minute Speech

– For a 5-minute speech, aim for 730-750 words.

– This keeps things short and sweet, making your talk easier to understand and remember.

Fast Talkers Words In 5 Minute Speech

– People who talk quickly can say a lot in a short time, sometimes even 860-880 words in a 5-minute speech.

– While that’s exciting, it’s important to speak at a pace that everyone can understand.

Slow Talkers Words In 5 Minute Speech

– People who talk slowly have a speed of about 610-630 words in 5 minute speech.

– But to keep listeners interested, it’s important to speak at a pace that isn’t too slow.

How Many Words In A 10 Minute Speech

Curious how many words fit in a 10-minute speech? Knowing the average helps!

Let’s explore how fast and slow talkers fit words in their 10-minute talks.

Research Findings On Average Words In 10 Minute Speech

– According to various studies, a 10-minute speech has about 1,480-1,520 words.

– This keeps your audience engaged and helps them understand your talk.

Fast Talkers Words In 10 Minute Speech

– You are a fast talker, in a 10-minute speech, you could hit 1,730-1,750 words.

– That’s great, but slow down sometimes. Your audience needs time to understand you.

Slow Talkers Words In 10 Minute Speech

– A comfy pace for a 10-minute speech is 1,250-1,300 words.

– Remember to keep things moving to hold your audience’s attention.

How Many Words In A 15 Minute Speech

Attention spans are short, so 15-minute talks need to be tight! How many words are perfect?

Average Words In 15 Minute Speech

– Studies suggest around 2,230-2,250 words is a good target.

– Remember, this can change depending on how fast you speak, how much you pause, and if you include stories.

Fast Talker Words In 15 Minute Speech

– Fast talkers can hit around 2,600-2,650 words in 15 minutes.

– But remember, talking fast isn’t enough! Your words still need to be clear and easy to understand.

Slow Talker Words In 15 Minute Speech

– If you are a more thoughtful speaker, you can say 1,850-1,900 words for a 15-minute speech.

– Remember, it’s not about how many words you say, but how powerful they are.

How Many Words In A 20 Minute Speech

Feeling lost about how many words in your 20-minute speech should be? Let’s find out.

Average Words In 20 Minute Speech

– For a 20-minute speech, aim for around 2,900-3,000 words.

– The key is to be clear and engaging, no matter how long you talk!

Fast Talker Words In 20 Minute Speech

– Speakers who talk fast could be saying anywhere from 3,400-3,500 words in a 20-minute speech.

– Remember, clarity is key! The audience will appreciate it more if they can understand you

Slow Talkers Words In 20 Minute Speech

– Slow speakers usually use fewer words, around 2,400-2,500 in a 20-minute speech.

– Take your time, highlight important points, and let your words sink in.

Public Speaking And WPM

Nervous about public speaking? Don’t worry, the magic number for a great presentation is within reach!

Explore the ideal pace (words per minute) to captivate your audience. Analyze famous speeches to learn from the pros.

1. Ideal WPM For Effective Public Speaking

Picture this: you’re at a friend’s backyard barbecue, chatting about your weekend plans. The words flow naturally, and everyone is engaged.

Public speaking , ideally, should feel like that – comfortable and conversational. The sweet spot for WPM in public speaking is around 140-160 words.

Why this range? It’s the Goldilocks zone – not too fast to overwhelm, and not too slow to bore.

Think of it as the pace that keeps your audience hanging on to every word without feeling like they’re racing against the clock.

2. Tips For Adjusting Speech Rate

Think about your listeners

–  Younger folks:  They might be cool with a quicker, more energetic delivery.

–  Older folks:  Take things a little slower so they can understand everything.

Match your message to your speed

–  Good news:  Speed it up to show your excitement!

–  Serious stuff:  Slow down to make sure it’s all clear.

Practice without becoming a robot

– Speak naturally, like you’re talking to a friend.

– Try different speeds until you find what feels comfortable and effective.

3. Famous Speeches And Their WPM Analysis

Let’s play detective and dissect a couple of iconic speeches:

–  Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream”:  This masterpiece clocked in at approximately 110 WPM.

King’s deliberate pace allowed the power of his words to resonate. This made his message unforgettable.

–  Steve Jobs’ Address:  Jobs, a master storyteller, maintained a brisk pace of around 190 WPM.

His energy and enthusiasm kept listeners on the edge of their seats.

–  TED Talks – The 18-Minute Rule:  Many TED Talks aim for a total duration of 18 minutes, keeping the WPM close to 160.

This intentional limitation ensures clarity and impact without overwhelming the audience.

Talk clearly, and connect deeply!

How fast you talk matters. Too fast, people get lost. Too slow, they zone out. Find the “just right” pace to make your words easy to understand.

Curious about your own speaking pace ? Record yourself and listen back. See how it feels? Try slowing down, adding pauses, and see how it changes things.

Remember, talking is an art, not a science. Your unique voice and rhythm can turn boring chats into amazing connections.

So speak up, find your flow, and let your voice sing!

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Free Online Words to Minutes Calculator

How long should your 5 minutes speech be? How many words should your essay be to take 5 minutes reading?

To find an answer, you need words to minutes calculator. IvyPanda Experts prepared this post, where you will find 10 free words to minutes converters, find out how to measure your speaking rate, and how long your X-minute speech has to be.

🏆 Top 10 Free Words to Minutes Converter

🎤 how long does a 4-minute speech have to be, ⏱ how to measure your speech length, 1. speech in minutes.

This is a free-to-use speech calculator to measure how long it takes to deliver your speech. To use this tool, you need to enter the word count and choose the reading speed: from slow (100 words per minute) to fast (160 words per minute). No registration is needed.

2. Words to Time

Words To Time as an ad-free text to speech calculator that will provide you with the number of minutes immediately. You can type the number of words you want to convert or paste your text and grab the result. Don’t forget to pick up the reading speed!

3. The Word Finder

This is a free speech length estimator. No sign-up, no ads, or captcha. Type the word count, choose speaking speed, and grab the result immediately. There are also available various cool apps like Font Generators, Backwards Text Converter, Time Calc, etc.

4. EdgeStudio

Edge Studio, the voice recording company, developed a free online script timer. Depending on the data available, you can put the words count, paste your text, or type the average words per line. You will get a result instantly after you click the button “Submit.” On the tab “Statistics,” you can find out stats about reading speed, word, and line count.

5. Copywritely

At this website, you can measure the time of reading your text within a couple of clicks using its words to minutes calculator. Paste your text, and at the bottom of the field, you will see the word count and the approximate speech time.

The tool is available in English, Russian, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch. Also, there are available Grammar Checker, Alphabetizer, Words to Pages, and other apps that will become handy for any writing purpose.

6. Read-O-Meter

Read-O-Meter is a simple and hassle-free word to minutes calculator to estimate the reading time. All you have to do is just type or paste the text you want to calculate the speech or article length and press the button “Estimate Reading Time.”

7. TheVoice Realm

This speech length calculator was designed by the online voice casting company. To use it, you need to paste your text or the word count and find out the estimated time. The page also contains background information about the speaking speed and how many minutes in 300, 900, and more words.

To use the Words to Time Conversion tool, you need to know the word count of your text. To get the estimated speech time, you need to type the number of words and adjust reading or speaking time, and you will get an immediate result. The tool is free and contains no ads.

9. Debatrix

This is another ad-free word to minute speech calculator to find out how long your speech will take. To measure the estimated time, you need to paste the text. The online app will count the number of words and speech duration.

10. TextConverter

The website provides plenty of tools that will be useful for students, SEO specialists, and writers.

Choose the text type: speech or locution, reading rhythm, and get the estimated time for your project. The app also will count the number of words and characters.

On the website, you can also find other utilities: Text Randomizer, Upper and Lower Case converters, E-mails Extractor, Hashtags, etc. The site is available in English and Portuguese languages.

Why do we need to measure the reading or speaking time?

There can be a variety of reasons. For example, you should prepare a 5-minute speech, or your post should not exceed 10 minutes of reading.

Speaking or reading time depends on the person who is going to read the text. Below, you will find a table that will help you quickly determine the duration of the content. The table is divided into two parts. The first one gives you reference information of minutes to words conversion. The second one shows the inverse correlation.

This table provides only the estimated information. The actual speech duration depends on your speaking pace, pauses, and so on. Below you will find out what impacts and how to measure your speaking rate.

Keep reading!

In this post, we will share with you how to measure how long your speech will be. Also, you will find out what impacts your speaking pace and how to practice it.

Determine the Word Count

First things first, so let’s determine the number of words you want to turn to minutes. If you use the Microsoft Word or Open Office, you will find out the word count on the status bar at the bottom of the screen.

In Google Docs, you can click Tools>>Word Count, or use the shortcut CTRL+SHIFT+C. If you use other word processors, refer to the help system of the tool.

Determine the Speech Pace

If you don’t know how many words you speak per minute, there are a couple of options to find out it. Check them below!

Use the sample text. Here is how it works: take your sample text, start the timer, and begin reading it aloud. When the minute is up, use your word processing app to figure out how many words you read. This will be your speed of speech.

Record yourself. Another way to find out your speaking pace is to record your speech. Set a timer for a minute, read any text, or talk about any topic while recording it. Then, listen to it and count the words you spoke. You can count it manually or use the software, for example, IBM Speech to Text calculator .

What Impacts Your Speaking Rate?

The speaking rate is individual. There are many factors that influence it. Here are some of them:

• Pauses, and rhetorical devices. The more it has, the slower your speaking rate will be.
• Condition of the speaker. If you’re angry, excited, or in a hurry, you will probably speak faster than usual. On the other hand, when you are tired, it makes it harder to speak quickly.
• Urgency. Here’s the deal: in emergencies, we are more likely will speak quicker than in a calm environment.
• Mental issues. Some mental conditions may lead to a slower or faster speech rate.
• Audience and event. For example, if you are recording audio for a radio ad, you will speak faster, since you are limited by the time. Another example is when you are trying to explain the complicated term to students. More likely, you will slow down your speech. During the presentation, you can also make pauses while changing the slides or checking your notes.
• Environment. Yes, your background directly impacts your speaking pace: your dialect, family, culture, friends, and neighbors, etc.
• Words and content complexity. The long and complex words also impact your speaking pace, making it slower. The same can be said about complex content—it requires more time to deliver it to the audience. Remember about this if you are limited by time.
• Language. Depending on the language you speak, your speaking rate will vary. In 2011, the University of Lyon researchers asked volunteers to read twenty texts in their native languages: English, German, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, and Italian. The purpose of studies was to find out how the density of syllables impacts the rate of communication.

Here’s what they found: the Mandarin language is the slowest one, with 5.18 syllables per second. However, it has the highest information density. The fastest language is Japanese, with its 7.84 syllables per second rate. English language speaking rate is 6.19 syllables per second.

Another interesting fact about the speaking rate is the world record shattered by Steve Woodmore . He articulates 637 words in one minute!

If you are wondering about the average speaking rates, check the table below:

Source: National Center for Voice and Speech

But what about reading? Is the reading pace the same as speaking?

On average, people read 180-300 words per minute. However, speed readers can read 1000+ words per minute.

How to Practice Your Speaking Rate?

You might have met people called a motor-mouth — they speak too fast, and words seem rocket out from their mouths. Others, on the opposite, speak too slowly. You can compare them with sloths from the movie Zootopia:

Both these cases can be fun for a while. However, the too fast and too slow speech will make the listeners lose their interest.

The solution is to practice your speaking rate, making it flexible, and adapting to your audience’s needs.

Below, you will find five easy exercises that will help you to develop a flexible speaking rate:

Read children’s books aloud.

Here’s the deal: when you read stories to a child, you might notice that some passages require you to speak faster, while others must be read at a slow pace.

Read a story several times aloud to become familiar with the text and its passages. If it is possible, record yourself. Then, try reading the text and change the pace. Listen to the records to hear the differences. Think of how the speaking rate impacts the comprehension of the text.

Read scientific reports.

You may find this exercise boring, but yet it will be helpful for delivering complex things in your future speeches.

First, pick up the newspaper or magazine. For example, you can try a Science magazine website — there are plenty of interesting topics, reports, and articles to discover. After you select the report, read it silently to familiarize yourself with the material. The next step is to read it aloud (don’t forget about recording yourself!), noting which parts of the text should be read at a slow pace, and which — faster.

You can extend this exercise and image that you read the article to someone who knows nothing about this topic. Listen to the records and pay attention to the changes you made.

Read your own class speeches.

Make a series of experiments with one of your old class speeches. First, record it delivering the speech at your normal speaking pace. Check the time it took to deliver.

The next step is to mark down some passages to read at slower and others — at a faster rate. Now, read it aloud again while adhering to the marks. Listen to the records; note how changed the time and overall speech comprehension.

Listen to various speakers.

Watch the movie, listen to the news on TV, and watch the classical play. Compare the speech rates of the speakers. You will notice the rhetorical devices they use and how effective their speech is. Then, experiment with your own speech and see how it changes.

Read texts you are familiar with.

Read the text you already know at a quicker or slower pace than usual. Record yourself and play it back. Note the places where your speaking rate was effective and where it wasn’t. Then, mark these places and reread the text again, implementing these changes and recording yourself. See how your speech has changed.

These simple exercises will help you to produce effective speeches for various audiences.

There are a couple of things you need to remember when you speak:

• Fast speaking indicates urgency, passion, and emotions. If you want to stimulate and excite the attention of your listeners, speak quickly. However, you should remember that after a couple of minutes of listening to fast speech, it becomes overwhelming.
• Slow speaking, on the other hand, indicates the seriousness of your point, its importance. Use this approach to grab the attention of your audience. The slow pace also will help them to easier process the information you want to deliver. Similar to fast speaking, too slow pace in your entire speech also can overwhelm and bore your listeners.

How to Make the Speech Memorable

Pace yourself to highlight the most important parts of the speech, and your audience will memorize what you said. The key to any great speech is the retention of the audience. Check the IvyPanda expert advice to make your talks memorable :

• Tell stories. Interesting examples not only illustrate your speech but also help listeners to recall what you said. Humor and short stories from your life will also help you to grab the attention of your audience. Important notice: tell only relevant ones and don’t overuse them.
• Use pauses and breaks. Just like a novel is broken into chapters and paragraphs, pauses in your speech serve as a signal of the end of one point and transition to another.

Use simple and short sentences and phrases. Short sentences and simple language will help you to maximize the engagement and comprehension of your audience. Avoid complex words unless you are talking about specific tech terms in front of the professionals in this sphere.

• Engage your audience with questions. At the beginning of the speech, ask your audience a question or two. This method will give them a hook and grab their attention.
• Review your speech after you wrote it. Check if everything is clear. Rehearse it in various rates and note places where you need to speed up your speech and where to slow it down.

Now you know how to find out the length of your speech, have all the tools to convert words to minutes, and advice on how to practice your speaking rate. Don’t forget to check our other tools to write outstanding speeches.

Updated: Oct 25th, 2023

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When you are working on a 5-minute speech, you may want to know how many words you should write. This page contains links to 10 free online words to minutes converters. Here you will also find tips on how to measure your speaking rate and how to make your speech memorable.

Words to Time Calculator

Explore our words to time calculator, a must-have tool for authors, narrators, and readers. Perfect for audiobook production and preparing presentations, it converts word counts into precise reading times. Adjust for different reading speeds to meet any audience's needs, ensuring your content fits your allotted time seamlessly.

Conversion Table (Average Speed)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is words to time calculator.

This tool helps you estimate how long it will take to read a given amount of text aloud. This can be useful for preparing speeches, presentations, or performances.

Can I use this tool to estimate the time it will take to read a book?

Yes, you can use this tool to estimate how long it might take to read a book aloud. Simply enter the total number of words in the text, and choose your reading speed.

Can I use this tool for fiction and non-fiction books?

Yes, you can use this words to time calculator to etimate the reading or production time for both fiction such as novels and non-fiction books such as self help books.

Is the words to time converter useful for audiobook creators?

Absolutely! This tool can help audiobook narrators and producers estimate the total narration time, which is crucial for planning recording sessions and budgeting time.

Is there a standard reading speed that I should aim for?

While average reading speeds are around 150-250 words per minute, there is no "ideal" speed. Your target speed should depend on your comprehension and comfort levels, as well as the purpose of your reading.

How can I estimate the length of an audiobook before it’s produced?

Use this tool to input the total word count of the manuscript to get an estimated duration of the audiobook, which can be useful for publishers and authors during the planning phase.

Voice Chapter 7 - Supercharged wake words and timers

This chapter might be one of the most feature-packed yet, bringing the highly requested timer feature and major improvements to wake words, along with experimental technology that even outclasses big tech’s voice assistants.

Welcome to Voice Chapter 7, on today’s menu:

Big things for microWakeWord

Timers are here, timers control devices, ai in control, expand an llm with scripts, enhanced media control, easier updates for your voice assistant.

At the beginning of this year wake word detection could only run on Home Assistant itself. Voice devices would pass on all audio to Home Assistant, which would listen out for supported wake words like “Hey Jarvis” or “Okay Nabu”.  This had the downside that your device, let’s say a Raspberry Pi, could only support a handful of voice satellites, and there would always be a delay in responses. We knew the benefits of wake word detection running on-device, but there was a lack of good open source options.

Kevin Ahrendt , a former mathematics professor, took up the task and created microWakeWord in his spare time. It is a wake word engine optimized to run fast and reliably on microcontrollers. It was made for ESPHome, but it is available standalone and under the Apache 2.0 open source license. No one will ever have to pay for wake words ever again.

In our Chapter 6 Livestream we did a deep dive into how this voice processing is possible on such lean hardware (we’re talking late-90s PC levels of RAM and CPU power). It was in this last chapter where we launched v1 of microWakeWord , which at the time could only run on ESP32-S3 chips. A lot has happened since then, and it’s all awesome .

microWakeWord and Kevin join the team

We are proud to announce that microWakeWord has become a collaboration partner of the Open Home Foundation (OHF). The foundation owns and supports Home Assistant, ESPHome, and our Text-to-Speech engine, Piper. The collaboration partner status recognizes microWakeWord as an important technology for the Open Home.

Nabu Casa, the company behind Home Assistant Cloud, has no investors and its sole purpose is to serve the Open Home Foundation. The money it earns is used to hire developers to work on Home Assistant and other Open Home projects. They have been a driving force behind voice development and are building their own ESPHome-based voice hardware , to allow anyone to enjoy a privacy-focused voice assistant.

Kevin’s contributions have already been incredibly valuable to our work with Voice. That’s why we’re super stoked to announce that Kevin has joined Nabu Casa, where he will initially focus on microWakeWord and voice handling in ESPHome.

To support this work on Home Assistant, ESPHome, voice assistants, and more, consider subscribing to Home Assistant Cloud .

3x wake words and 2x accuracy

Kevin has been hard at work on improving microWakeWord, and we’re happy to announce version 2, which will be included in the next ESPHome release. It runs a lot faster and with improved accuracy.

When we say the new model is faster, we mean a lot faster. Not only does it now run on the normal ESP32 chips, those chips can now run three wake words at the same time ! We haven’t added this feature to Home Assistant yet, but expect to be able to trigger your Dutch and English voice assistants, each with their own wake words.

The new performance doesn’t come at the cost of accuracy - it’s the opposite. The new model performs twice as well as microWakeWord v1, especially when you take advantage of its voice activity detection feature. We would love to benchmark our models against commercial competitors, but “false acceptances per hour” are considered by most companies to be a trade secret and not published.

The graph above gives the results from the Picovoice benchmark, which uses hundreds of samples of the wake word from real speakers spread out over 24 hours with realistic background noise mixed in. Spoken English sentences that don’t contain the wake word are layered in to test false acceptances, ie. triggering when the wake word wasn’t actually said. We can increase the model’s confidence level, which makes it less likely to have a false trigger, but also less likely to accept a wake word. Across the board v2 outperforms v1, and in good circumstances it outperforms v1 by nearly double!

Next for microWakeWord is to improve the accuracy for non-native English speakers. It will require us to collect recordings of people around the world saying the wake words. We’re working on a website to allow anyone to easily participate directly from their phone.

Ask and you shall receive - in February this year we asked our community what features they want from a voice assistant, and next to controlling devices and responding to wake words, timers were the third most requested. This is just one example of how our roadmap is helping us spot gaps and build solutions.

First the important bits: yes, you can have multiple timers . These short-lived timers allow users to be reminded of something after a period of time. For example, if you’re boiling eggs, you can set a timer to remind you to take the eggs out. Each timer has a duration, and optionally a name.

Users can use their voice to create, cancel, pause, resume, and change the duration of a timer:

• “Create a timer for 5 minutes”
• “Create a 15-minute timer for pizza”
• “Cancel my timer”
• “Add 2 minutes to my 5-minute timer”
• “Subtract 3 minutes from my pizza timer”

When you give timers a name, it is easier to distinguish when you have multiple running as you can now reference it by name or duration (“cancel pizza timer” or “cancel 15-minute timer”).

Timers are available today on ESPHome and Wyoming voice satellites that are connected to the latest version of Home Assistant. If you use the firmware we provided for the Atom Echo Dev Kit or the ESP32-S3 Box 3, update to the latest version for timer support.

While working on timers, we thought: why limit our users to just playing a beeping sound after the clock ticks down. What if any command could be executed with a timed delay?

That’s why in this release, users can now allow any voice command to be executed with a timed delay: “turn off the lights in 10 minutes”. When the time is up, the text of the voice command is processed by the same voice assistant that heard the delayed command. Just be careful, unlike regular voice timers, these delayed commands cannot be canceled or modified.

• Turn off the lights in 5 minutes
• Pause TV in 10 minutes
• Open the blinds in 5 minutes

Large language models (LLMs) are also able to create delayed commands, for instance saying “I’m going to bed early tonight”, might lead the LLM to send itself a delayed command to start the bedtime routine sooner.

Speaking of LLMs, our Home Assistant 2024.6 update allows AI agents to control your devices . This is part of our broader AI strategy we outlined in a recent blog . It will be an important part of the future smart home, and Home Assistant will be the best platform for AI because of its focus on privacy and choice. We know it is not for everyone, nor is it ready for mass adoption, but we are making it available to experiment with. Give it a try on your voice hardware today, with device control currently available on both Google AI and OpenAI .

To make it easier to expand the things that LLMs can do, Home Assistant 2024.7 (coming next week), will allow LLMs to access approved scripts. This lets you precisely control what the LLM will do in specific situations while retaining flexibility and natural language processing AI’s are so good at.

For example, telling an LLM conversation agent that you’re leaving the house may result in some unexpected behavior, such as turning off devices you want to be left on. To fix this, create a “leaving home” script that does exactly what you want and expose it to Assist. You could also add fields into the script, which help further guide the LLM, like giving it different behaviors for short or long trips away from home. Now when you say something like “I’m heading out for a couple of minutes”, using the script it will lock the door, but not turn off the air conditioning.

Assist can now control media players with simple commands like “pause”, “resume”, “next”, and “set volume to 100%”. While simple on the surface, a lot of complexity is hidden underneath. Consider a living room with two media players: a smart speaker that is paused and a TV that is playing. If the user says “pause”, the TV will be paused since it is the only media player that is currently playing. However, if the user then says “resume”, Assist will only resume the TV because it was the last media player paused.

Media players can be targeted by name (“pause TV”) or by area (“resume music in the kitchen”). When not provided, the area and floor of the voice satellite are used to determine which media player(s) to target. So “pause” will look for media players that are playing in the current area, followed by the current floor.

Our voice satellites are powered by ESPHome, our open source framework for making private, secure, and reliable smart home devices of all kinds. We are regularly improving our voice capabilities in updates and we want our users to have easy access to these new features.

With the latest version of ESPHome we have introduced Over-the-Air updates . Following our upcoming Home Assistant 2024.7 release, users building a ready-made voice satellite projects (such as the Atom Echo or S3 Box), will be able to update the device directly from Home Assistant without requiring the ESPHome add-on. These devices can download their firmware directly from the web, no building required.

If you stuck around all the way to the end, don’t forget to check out the Chapter 7 live stream for even more on voice!