How Many Words Is a [...]?
A reference library of common word-count targets — for speeches, video scripts, articles, written formats, and short-form professional writing.
31 word-count answers · all calculations based on standard speaking, narration, and reading rates · last updated May 2026
Speeches & Presentations
Word counts based on a 130-words-per-minute speaking baseline, with adjustments for pace, pauses, and audience.
- 1-minute speech≈ 130 words (110–150)
- 2-minute speech≈ 260 words (220–300)
- 3-minute speech≈ 390 words (330–450)
- 5-minute speech≈ 650 words (550–750)
- 7-minute speech≈ 910 words (770–1,050)
- 10-minute speech≈ 1,300 words (1,100–1,500)
- 15-minute speech≈ 1,950 words (1,650–2,250)
- 20-minute speech≈ 2,600 words (2,200–3,000)
- 30-minute speech≈ 3,900 words (3,300–4,500)
- eulogy≈ 1,200 words (1,000–1,500)
- best man speech≈ 580 words (520–650)
- graduation speech≈ 900 words (650–1,300)
Video & Podcast Scripts
Script-length targets for YouTube, TikTok, Reels, Shorts, and podcast formats — based on typical narration pace.
Reading Time
Word counts that map to silent reading times of 5, 10, 15 minutes and longer — based on a 250-words-per-minute reading rate.
Written Formats
Conventional word-count ranges for novels, short fiction, essays, and longform articles.
Business & Personal Communications
Length targets for resumes, cover letters, elevator pitches, social posts, and other short-form professional writing.
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