How many words is a 5-minute speech?

A 5-minute speech is approximately 650 words, based on an average speaking pace of 130 words per minute. If you speak faster or slower, adjust accordingly.

How many words per minute do people speak?

The average conversational pace is 120–150 words per minute. Presentations typically run around 130 wpm. Orators and broadcasters often aim for 140–160 wpm.

How many words is a 10-minute speech?

A 10-minute speech is about 1,300 words at a pace of 130 wpm. Always build in buffer time for longer speeches.

How long is a 1-minute speech?

A 1-minute speech is between 120 and 150 words depending on pace. Elevator pitches and quick introductions typically fall in this range.

Is my speech text stored or shared?

No. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your speech text is never uploaded to any server or stored anywhere.

Word Counter for Speeches

Check your speech length in real time. Know exactly how many words you need for a 5, 10 or 15 minute presentation.

Auto-expand

Words

Characters

Characters (no spaces)

Sentences

Paragraphs

Reading Time

0min

How Long Should Your Speech Be?

The average person speaks at about 130 words per minute. That means a 5-minute speech needs roughly 650 words, a 10-minute presentation needs about 1,300 words, and a 15-minute talk needs around 1,950 words. Going over your allotted time is one of the most common mistakes speakers make. This word counter helps you write a speech that fits your time slot perfectly.

How to Use This Speech Word Counter

Paste your speech or script into the box above. The tool instantly shows your word count and estimated reading time. Use the reading time as a guide for speaking time — most people speak slightly slower than they read, so add 10–20% to the estimated reading time.

Use Cases

5-Minute Speeches

A 5-minute speech is approximately 650 words at an average speaking pace of 130 words per minute. Common for lightning talks at conferences, classroom presentations, and short toasts.

10-Minute Presentations

A 10-minute presentation needs about 1,300 words. This is the standard length for business presentations, academic talks, and workshop segments.

Wedding and Event Speeches

Wedding toasts and event speeches typically run 2–5 minutes — that's 260–650 words. Short, memorable, and heartfelt. Check your word count here so you don't run long on the big day.

TED-Style Talks

The classic TED Talk format is 18 minutes, which is about 2,340 words. Count your words before rehearsals so you know whether you're on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many words is a 5-minute speech?: A 5-minute speech is approximately 650 words, based on an average speaking pace of 130 words per minute. If you speak faster or slower, adjust accordingly.
How many words per minute do people speak?: The average conversational pace is 120–150 words per minute. Presentations typically run around 130 wpm. Orators and broadcasters often aim for 140–160 wpm.
How many words is a 10-minute speech?: A 10-minute speech is about 1,300 words at a pace of 130 wpm. Always build in buffer time for longer speeches.
How long is a 1-minute speech?: A 1-minute speech is between 120 and 150 words depending on pace. Elevator pitches and quick introductions typically fall in this range.
Is my speech text stored or shared?: No. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your speech text is never uploaded to any server or stored anywhere.