Speech & Reading Time Calculator

Estimates how long a script takes to say aloud and to read silently, and works out how much text fits in a set time. Use it to fit a script to a one-minute introduction or a five-minute talk.

How to use

1. Paste your text into "Script", or choose "Enter a count" and type the number of words.
2. Choose "Slow", "Normal" or "Fast" under "Speaking pace"; the "Time to say it aloud" appears.
3. Enter minutes and seconds under "How much fits in a set time" to see how many words fit.
4. To measure yourself, open "Measure my pace", press "Start reading", read the script aloud, press "Stop" and then "Use as my pace".

How it works

• Time = length ÷ rate per minute. Languages with spaces are counted in words; Chinese, Japanese and Korean in characters without spaces or punctuation. The language is detected from the text.
• The default English rates are 110 (slow), 130 (normal) and 160 (fast) words per minute for speaking, and 238 for silent reading. They are assumed averages; speakers differ a lot, and pauses, slides and questions add time.
• If the script has several paragraphs, "Time by paragraph" shows the time for each one and a running total.
• Rates you change or measure are remembered in this browser.

Questions and answers

How many words is a one-minute speech?

At the default normal pace of 130 words per minute, about 130 words. Enter one minute under "How much fits in a set time" to see the range from slow to fast.

How long does it take to read a page aloud?

A page can hold very different numbers of words depending on font size and spacing. Paste the text to time the actual words.

How can I find out my own speaking rate?

In "Measure my pace", read the whole script at your normal pace to see your words per minute. "Use as my pace" keeps that rate for later.

Why is my real talk longer than the estimate?

The rates are assumed averages and vary by speaker and content. Pauses, emphasis and audience reactions usually add time.