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Reading & Speaking Time Calculator

Estimate reading and speaking duration from a word count and adjustable words-per-minute speeds.

Your inputs

Adjust the example values, then calculate.

Your result

Review your calculated values below.

Ready when you are.

Choose Calculate to see your result.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter your values in the labeled fields, keeping the displayed units.
  2. Choose Calculate or press Enter in a single-line field.
  3. Review the result and the assumptions below before using it.

Formula and method

Duration in minutes = word count / words per minute. Reading and speaking use separate rates.

Worked example

1,000 words take five minutes at 200 words per minute, or eight minutes to speak at 125 words per minute.

What the result assumes

Default rates are editable planning examples. Complexity, pauses, language, and individual reading habits affect the actual time.

Common question

Does speaking time include pauses?

Only to the extent that your chosen rate accounts for them. Use a slower effective rate for presentations with pauses or demonstrations.