Measure Your Speaking Speed
The calculator will determine your natural speaking rate in Words Per Minute (WPM).
You can replace the text below with something else, but make sure it’s long enough – at least 150 words.
Hi! My name is Jacek. Thanks for dropping by – I hope you find this tool useful.
As you can see on the left – I do speak sometimes.
Because I consider the time of my audience to be precious (and being a detailed oriented software engineer) – I always try my best to fit as much of quality content in the speech as possible.
For that I needed a tool. I could not find anything I liked – so I ended up creating this.
Let me know if this calculator works for you and if you have any idea to improve it.
How to Use the Speaking Time Calculator
The Speaking Time Calculator helps you estimate how long your speech or presentation will take based on word count and speaking rate. Here's how to use it:
Basic Usage Methods
Method 1: Using Text Input
- Paste or type your speech text directly into the text box
- The calculator automatically counts the words and calculates the speaking time based on the WPM (words per minute) setting
- You can add multiple text areas if you want to organize your speech into sections
Method 2: Using Word Count
- Enter the total number of words in the "Word Count" field
- The calculator calculates the speaking time based on the WPM setting
Method 3: Using Duration
- Enter the desired speech duration in hours, minutes, and seconds
- The calculator determines the number of words needed based on the WPM setting
Main Features
1. Multiple Text Areas
- Click "Add text section" to create additional sections (up to 20)
- Each section displays its own word count and duration
- Delete sections by clicking "Remove"
- The calculator automatically sums all sections
2. Speaking speed control
- The default speed is 130 WPM
- Adjust the speed using:
- The number input field (80-350 WPM)
- The slider (80-300 WPM in 5 WPM increments)
- Pin your preferred WPM setting using the pin button to save it between sessions
3. Speaking speed categories
The calculator categorizes speaking speeds:
- Extremely slow: 80-100 WPM
- Very slow: 100-120 WPM
- Slow: 120-140 WPM
- Moderate: 140-160 WPM (recommended for presentations)
- Conversational: 150-180 WPM
- Fast: 180-200 WPM
- Very fast: 200-250 WPM
- Extremely fast: 250-300 WPM
4. Security and Privacy Features
- Text is processed locally on your device
- Nothing is sent over the internet or cached in your browser
- Recover accidentally deleted sections with a pop-up notification
Tips for getting the best results
- Use “Moderate” (140-160 WPM) for formal presentations
- Use “Conversational” (150-180 WPM) for casual conversations
- Factor in pauses and slide transitions into your total time
- Test your actual speaking speed for a more accurate estimate
Speaking Rate Breakdown
Here is a breakdown of the speaking rate distribution, taking into account different contexts and communication purposes. This allows for a more precise categorization of speaking rates, from very slow formal speech to extremely fast commentary.
Extremely Slow (80-100 WPM)
This is when you haven't fully woken up yet. :-)
Very Slow (100-120 WPM)
Used for formal speeches or presentations with complex content, such as technical lectures, or when clarity is key. For example, Barack Obama's speeches often fall into this range.
Slow (120-140 WPM)
Suitable for presentations with technical content or speaking with a foreign accent. This rate helps ensure that listeners can follow the information without difficulty.
Moderate (140-160 WPM)
Ideal for public speaking and presentations where a comfortable pace is desired. This range is recommended for effective communication in an academic setting.
Conversational (150-180 WPM)
This range is typical for everyday conversation, natural and engaging. This is the average speed for English speakers in casual interactions.
Fast (180-200 WPM)
Often used for storytelling or expressing enthusiasm. For example, Tony Robbins speaks at around 201 WPM during his TED talks.
Very Fast (200-250 WPM)
Common among auctioneers or in emergency situations, such as emergency announcements. Mandarin speakers typically speak at around 200 WPM.
Extremely fast (250-300 WPM)
Seen by sports commentators or in situations requiring quick information such as sales claims. Spanish speakers can reach around 260 WPM due to the language's phonetic consistency and expressive style.
Baseline speech times
Based on 130 words per minute:
How long does it take to speak 100 words? It takes 0 minutes and 46 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 500 words? It takes 3 minutes and 51 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 1000 words? It takes 7 minutes and 42 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 1500 words? It takes 11 minutes and 32 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 2000 words? It takes 15 minutes and 23 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 3000 words? It takes 23 minutes and 5 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 4000 words? It takes 30 minutes and 46 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 5000 words? It takes 38 minutes and 28 seconds.
How long does it take to speak 10000 words? It takes 76 minutes and 55 seconds.
Use Cases: Who Can Benefit?
- Public Speakers: Practice and time your speeches to make sure you meet your allotted time.
- College Students: Prepare for class presentations and make sure you meet length requirements.
- Podcasters: Plan the length of your episodes and maintain a steady pace.
- Sermon Writers: Estimate the length of your sermons to deliver them effectively.
- Audiobook Readers: Maintain a steady and understandable reading pace.
- Anyone Giving a Speech: Whether it’s a wedding toast, a business presentation, or a eulogy, knowing the length of your speech is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The calculation provides a good estimate, but the actual time may vary slightly depending on factors such as pauses, audience interaction, and changes in speaking pace. It's always a good idea to practice your speech and time it.
A good speaking speed for a presentation is usually between 130 and 160 words per minute. Try to keep the pace clear, engaging, and easy for the audience to follow. Consider adjusting the pace based on the complexity of the material and the audience's familiarity with the topic.
The time it takes to deliver a 1,000-word speech depends on your speaking speed. Here's a quick guide using popular WPM settings:
- 100 WPM (slow): about 10 minutes.
- 130 WPM (casual): about 7 minutes and 42 seconds.
- 160 WPM (fast): about 6 minutes and 15 seconds.
Use our calculator above to find out how many words it takes to deliver a speech!
Yes, the calculator works for any language, as long as you know the word count and the approximate speaking speed (WPM) of that language. Speaking speed can vary slightly by language.