What Is the Speech Time Calculator?
With this Speaking Time Calculator, speakers can calculate approximately how long it would take to deliver their speech. The tool can automatically calculate the word count and speech length based on the chosen talking speed.
Speaking rates vary among speakers, so we provide a words per minute (WPM) slider to make adjustments for slower or faster speakers. A typical value is 170 WPM. Other factors should be considered also, such as length of speech, and the complexity of the topic.
In addition to estimating the speaking time for your text, the tool also shows the number of characters and words in your text.
How Does the Speech Time Calculator Work
To fit a speech within a specific time-frame, you can increase or decrease the number of words as needed, and make adjustments to the words per minute slider to maximize the effectiveness of your speech. The calculations involved in estimating speech duration are straightforward and based on simple math.
Estimated speech duration and word count will automatically be calculated for you as changes are made to the text. The tool can help users determine how many words are needed for a specific speech length, such as 3-minute or 5-minute speeches.
How To Use the Speech Time Calculator
To get started, enter your text by copying and pasting, or by uploading the text into the text box. An upload icon is provided where you can upload a text file.
Adjust the words-per-minute (WPM) slider to match your personal speech rate (default is 170 WPM). More time will be required as the WPM is lowered, and less time if the WPM is increased.
The tool will then instantly calculate the speech duration based on the word count and the words per minute setting.
Why Would You Use the Speech Time Calculator?
This tool is often useful when preparing a speech or a presentation. Additionally, there are more free tools available to aid in speech preparation.
Even for the most gifted speakers, it can be challenging to convey their message within the allotted time for the speech. This tool calculates how many minutes it will take to read a specific number of words, providing accurate time estimates for speeches and presentations based on a given average speed.
Public speakers, speech writers, actors, poets, narrators, and production companies will find this tool very helpful in delivering efficient and effective speeches.
For those who would like an estimate of the time it would take them to quietly read a book or other document, this tool can easily calculate this by entering the text and their average reading rate (which is slightly higher than the speaking rate).
What Is the Average Speech Rate?
According to the study Towards an Integrated Understanding of Speaking Rate in Conversation, the average speaking rate in English ranges from 152 words per minute to nearly 170 words per minute.
However, speakers should consider the type of audience when delivering a speech. Reading word for word wouldn't be as engaging as speaking based on notes. It is also helpful to speak a little slower or faster at times to emphasize key points that need to be understood.