Speaking Speed Test

Read a passage aloud to measure your speaking rate, and find out how many words fit in your speech.

How to use the Speaking Speed Test

  1. Press "Start speaking" and read the passage aloud at your natural presentation pace.
  2. Press "I have finished" when you reach the end.
  3. Read your speaking rate and the word counts for a 5 and 10 minute talk.

How fast should you speak?

Most people speak at 120 to 150 words per minute in conversation and presentations. Audiobook narrators and radio presenters aim for about 150 to 160. Speaking above 180 words per minute makes it harder for listeners to follow, especially with unfamiliar material.

Speech length Words at 130 WPM Words at 150 WPM
1 minute 130 150
5 minutes 650 750
10 minutes 1,300 1,500
20 minutes 2,600 3,000

Tips for pacing

  • Nerves make most people speed up. Practise at a pace that feels slightly too slow.
  • Pause after key points; silence gives listeners time to think.
  • Slow down for numbers, names and anything complicated.
  • Leave time for pauses, slides and audience reactions: write about 10% fewer words than the calculation suggests.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good speaking speed?

Between 130 and 160 words per minute suits most presentations and speeches.

How many words is a 5-minute speech?

About 650 to 750 words at a normal pace of 130 to 150 words per minute.

How do I slow down when speaking?

Breathe before you begin, pause at the end of each sentence and mark pauses in your notes. Recording yourself helps you hear your real pace.

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