How Many Words Is a 45-Minute Speech?

5850 words

at 130 words per minute average pace

130 wpm average speaking pace

Speaking PaceWords Per MinuteWords for 45 Min
Slow (deliberate, formal)100 wpm4500
Conversational120 wpm5400
Average presentation130 wpm5850
Brisk (TED Talk pace)150 wpm6750
Fast (auctioneer-style)170 wpm7650

Quick Answer

A 45-minute speech is approximately 5,850 words at an average speaking pace of 130 words per minute.

Word Count for 45-Minute Speech at Different Paces

Speaking PaceWords Per MinuteWords for 45 Min
Slow (deliberate, formal)100 wpm4,500
Conversational120 wpm5,400
Average presentation130 wpm5,850
Brisk (TED Talk pace)150 wpm6,750
Fast (auctioneer-style)170 wpm7,650

45-Minute Speech — Quick Facts

Words Needed

~5,850 words (at 130 wpm)

Pages (double-spaced)

~46.8 pages

Paragraphs

~59 paragraphs

Slides (if presenting)

~23 slides

Tips for a 45-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.
  • Structure clearly: Use the rule of three — introduction (10%), body with 3 main points (80%), conclusion (10%).
  • Rehearse aloud: Reading silently is always faster than speaking. Rehearse at least 3 times out loud before presenting.