Talk Time Calculator

Calculate the estimated time it will take a person to read aloud a script of certain number of words based on their talking speed. This is great for planning out a voice-over for a video or trying to plan out a script for a project.

Required Information



Talk Time:

What is Talk Time?

Talk time is the amount of time it will take someone to read a certain amount of words. There are many instances, especially when on a tight schedule, where people will need to know if their speech or prepared segment will fit in their window. With our talk time calculator, you can be more sure of that.

How Fast do People Speak?

Being able to talk quickly and clearly is a skill that is learned over time usually, rarely something someone is good at. But you may be wondering, just how fast do people often speak?

  • Slow: 100wpm
  • Average: 130wpm
  • Fast: 160wpm

The Importance of Speaking Fast

Being able to quickly speak and get out over 160 words per minute can have its own advantages.

Unfazed by Time Constraints

You will be less stressed to get your point or presentation across with a tight time to present or share for one. Additionally, you will be able to get more information out in a shorter period of time, as well as more than your peers or competitors which can give you an upper hand.

Dynamic Speaking

With the ability to speak fast you can come off as more dynamic and grab more attention. Fast speaking when coupled with meaningful messages can come across as very confident and make you seem more important but also draw more eyes to you when speaking.

Handling Interruptions

You are likely a quick thinker if you are a quick talker. This means you will also be quick on your feet to respond quickly and coherently when interrupted and be able to debate and engage in conversation better.

Talk Time Examples

  • Example 1: Someone who speaks at a rate of 100 words per minute will take how long to read aloud a 500-word essay? Talk time = 500 / 100 = 5 minutes.

  • Example 2: Someone who speaks at a rate of 160 words per minute will take how long to read aloud a 840-word presentation? Talk time = 850 / 160 = 5 minutes and 15 seconds.

  • Example 3: Someone who speaks at a rate of 130 words per minute will take how long to read aloud a 330-word essay? Talk time = 330 / 130 = 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

Talk Time - Frequently Asked Questions

Talk Time refers to the amount of time it takes to verbally deliver a given number of words. It is typically calculated based on the number of words spoken per minute (WPM).

Understanding Talk Time is important for various reasons:

  • Effective Planning: Helps in planning the duration of speeches, presentations, or lectures.
  • Audience Engagement: Ensures that you maintain a pace that keeps the audience engaged.
  • Time Management: Aids in managing time effectively during events and meetings.

Several factors can influence talk time, including:

  • Practice Regularly: Frequent practice can help you find a comfortable and effective speaking pace.
  • Use a Timer: Record and time your practice sessions to monitor your WPM.
  • Get Feedback: Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your pacing.
  • Focus on Clarity: Ensure that clarity is not sacrificed for speed.

Simple enter the number of words that are going to be read aloud then choose the words per minute that the speaker is nearest to and hit calculate. Our free to use speech time calculator will instantly give you your results.

Yes, you can use this talk time calculator on any device for free at any time of the day.

Create Date: June 24, 2024

Last Modified Date: July 05, 2024