How Many Words Is a 1-Minute Speech?

130 words

at 130 words per minute average pace

130 wpm average speaking pace

Speaking PaceWords Per MinuteWords for 1 Min
Slow (deliberate, formal)100 wpm100
Conversational120 wpm120
Average presentation130 wpm130
Brisk (TED Talk pace)150 wpm150
Fast (auctioneer-style)170 wpm170

Quick Answer

A 1-minute speech is approximately 130 words at an average speaking pace of 130 words per minute.

Word Count for 1-Minute Speech at Different Paces

Speaking PaceWords Per MinuteWords for 1 Min
Slow (deliberate, formal)100 wpm100
Conversational120 wpm120
Average presentation130 wpm130
Brisk (TED Talk pace)150 wpm150
Fast (auctioneer-style)170 wpm170

1-Minute Speech — Quick Facts

Words Needed

~130 words (at 130 wpm)

Pages (double-spaced)

~1 pages

Paragraphs

~1 paragraphs

Slides (if presenting)

~1 slides

Tips for a 1-Minute Speech

  • Time yourself: Practice with a timer — most speakers go faster under pressure. Budget 10% less content than you think you need.
  • Use our word counter: Paste your speech into our word counter to track exact length as you write.
  • Pace yourself: Aim for 130 words per minute for a natural, professional delivery. Pause after key points.
  • Rehearse aloud: Reading silently is always faster than speaking. Rehearse at least 3 times out loud before presenting.