Free tool
Speech timer
Pick a length, type a topic or spin one, then press Start. The ring turns amber near the end. Nothing is recorded.
Last updated
Words to speaking time
Paste your speech or type a word count to see roughly how long it takes to say. Nothing you paste leaves this page.
A rough guide. Everyone speaks at their own pace, so time yourself with the timer above.
How long is my speech?
Rough word counts for common speech lengths, at three speaking paces.
| Length | Slow110 words a minute | Average130 words a minute | Fast150 words a minute |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 min | 110 words | 130 words | 150 words |
| 2 min | 220 words | 260 words | 300 words |
| 3 min | 330 words | 390 words | 450 words |
| 5 min | 550 words | 650 words | 750 words |
| 10 min | 1,100 words | 1,300 words | 1,500 words |
Tips for timing your speech
Time it out loud.
Reading in your head is faster than speaking. Say it out loud with the timer.
Leave room for pauses.
Pauses and laughs take time. If your slot is strict, aim a little under.
Know your closing line.
When the ring turns amber, go to your last line. Finishing on time looks prepared.
Want a different round? Try 1 minute speech topics or JAM topics.
Questions
What do the colours mean?
The ring is violet while you speak and turns amber with 15 seconds left, so you know it's time to close.
Does the timer record me?
No. It never uses your microphone. Speak out loud to yourself or to a friend.
How many words is a 2 minute speech?
About 260 words at an average pace of 130 words a minute, or 220 to 300 depending on how fast you speak.
How many words is a 5 minute speech?
About 650 words at an average pace, or 550 to 750 depending on how fast you speak.
How many words a minute is normal?
Most people speak at roughly 110 to 150 words a minute. Calm talks and presentations sit near the middle.
How long should a practice speech be?
One minute is a good start. Move to two or three minutes once one minute feels easy.
What is StageMinute?
A speaking-practice app coming soon to Android. You spin a topic, speak for up to a minute, and get a report with a score and one thing to fix.