Words to minutes, instantly

Speech Time Calculator

Our Speech Time Calculator shows how long your script will take to say aloud. Just paste in your speech, presentation, podcast, or voice-over script. Then choose a speaking speed. You'll get an instant estimate of words to minutes.

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Four quick steps

How to work out speaking time

  1. 01

    Paste or write your script

    Add a speech, presentation, podcast script, or voice-over. The word count updates as you type.

  2. 02

    Pick a speaking rate

    Use 100 WPM for a slow delivery, 130 WPM for a deliberate speech, 150 WPM for conversation, or enter your own rate.

  3. 03

    Allow for pauses

    Keep the pause allowance on for live speeches and presentations. Switch it off when timing continuous narration or an edited voice-over.

  4. 04

    Check the estimated duration

    Use the result to trim your script, plan slides, estimate voice-over length, or pick a faster text-to-speech speed.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

01

How many words are in a 5-minute speech?

A five-minute speech is usually 600 to 750 words. At a deliberate 130 words per minute, aim for about 650 words. Use fewer words if you need pauses, audience interaction, or time to change slides.
02

How many words are in a 10-minute presentation?

A ten-minute presentation is normally 1,200 to 1,500 spoken words. For a slide deck, 1,200 to 1,300 words is safer because transitions and visual explanations take up part of the time.
03

What is the average speaking speed?

Everyday conversation often sits near 150 words per minute. Public speeches and presentations are usually clearer around 120 to 140 WPM. Audiobook and voice-over pacing varies with the material, but 140 to 160 WPM is a useful starting range.
04

How do I calculate how long my speech will take?

Divide the number of words by your speaking rate. A 900-word script at 130 WPM takes about 6 minutes 55 seconds before pauses. This calculator does that formula automatically and can add a practical pause allowance.
05

Should I factor pauses into my speech time estimate?

Yes, if you’re presenting live. Pauses, laughter, questions, slide changes, and emphasis can add 5 to 15 percent. The calculator applies a 10 percent allowance when the pause option is on.
06

Can I use this as a voice-over duration calculator?

Yes. Paste your voice-over script and select the narrator’s approximate WPM. Turn off the pause allowance for tightly edited narration, or keep it on for dramatic reads that need breathing room.
07

Does punctuation affect the result?

The core estimate relies on word count and speaking rate. However, punctuation impacts real delivery, as commas, paragraph breaks, and full stops create pauses. Keep the pause allowance enabled if your script uses expressive punctuation.

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