Speech length calculator
Paste your speech, or just enter a word count, and see how long it takes to say out loud. Nothing you paste leaves your browser.
…or enter a word count:
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Slow & deliberate · 110 wpm
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Natural · 130 wpm
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Fast (nervous) · 160 wpm
Waiting for your words…
How many words per minute is a speech?
Conversational speech runs about 130–150 words per minute. Under pressure, most people speed up, which is why a speech that reads as five minutes can come out as three and a half. If you're nervous, write for 130 wpm and practice slowing down at the moments that matter.
How long should common speeches be?
- • Best man / maid of honor: 3–5 minutes (400–650 words)
- • Father of the bride: 4–6 minutes (520–780 words)
- • Couple's thank-you: 2–4 minutes (260–520 words)
- • Eulogy: 5–8 minutes (650–1,050 words)
- • Retirement toast: 3–5 minutes (400–650 words)
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