Words Per Minute Calculator
Calculate reading and speaking speeds for presentations and documents
Calculation Mode
Speaking Speed
Input
Enter the total number of words in your speech or presentation
Results
Understanding Words Per Minute
Speaking Speed Guidelines
- •Slow (100 WPM): Formal presentations, educational content, elderly audience
- •Average (130 WPM): Normal conversation, most presentations
- •Fast (160 WPM): Energetic presentations, YouTube videos, radio
- •Presentations: 100-120 WPM for better comprehension
Reading Speed Guidelines
- •Slow (170 WPM): Complex technical material, poetry
- •Average (200 WPM): Novels, newspapers, general content
- •Fast (230 WPM): Skimming, familiar material
- •Speed Reading: 300+ WPM with specialized techniques
How to Use This Calculator
For Presentations
- 1.Select "Speaking" mode
- 2.Choose your speaking speed (average is 130 WPM)
- 3.Enter your word count or desired time
- 4.Get instant duration or word count calculation
- 5.Adjust your content to fit time constraints
For Reading Plans
- 1.Select "Reading" mode
- 2.Choose your reading speed (average is 200 WPM)
- 3.Enter document word count or available time
- 4.Plan your reading schedule accordingly
- 5.Track your progress and adjust speed
Speech Duration Guidelines
5-Minute Speech
- • 500-600 words (ideal)
- • Maximum: 650 words
- • Perfect for elevator pitches
- • TED-style presentations
10-Minute Speech
- • 1000-1200 words (ideal)
- • Maximum: 1300 words
- • Conference presentations
- • Educational talks
20-Minute Speech
- • 2000-2400 words (ideal)
- • Maximum: 2600 words
- • Keynote speeches
- • Detailed presentations
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the average speaking speed?
The average speaking speed in English is 130 words per minute. However, this varies by context: presentations typically range from 100-120 WPM for better comprehension, while YouTubers often speak at 150-160 WPM to maintain engagement.
How do I measure my personal speaking speed?
Set a timer for one minute and read a passage aloud at your natural pace. Count the words you read during that minute. This gives you your personal words per minute rate, which you can input as a custom speed in our calculator.
What's the difference between reading and speaking speeds?
Reading speeds are typically higher than speaking speeds. Average reading speed is 200 WPM while average speaking speed is 130 WPM. This is because reading allows for quicker processing, while speaking requires articulation and breathing pauses.
How should I adjust my speed for different audiences?
Slow down for complex topics, non-native speakers, elderly audiences, or educational content (100 WPM). Use average speed (130 WPM) for general presentations. Increase speed (150+ WPM) for energetic content or familiar audiences, but be careful not to lose comprehension.