Free printable resource
Speech Length and Word-Count Chart
A printable timing reference for 30-second remarks through five-minute speeches at a natural pace.
Made for anyone trimming a speech to a hard time limit.
Download the PDFWord targets at 130 words per minute
Pause, laughter, and applause add time, so use the lower end for emotional or funny speeches.
- 30 seconds — about 65 words
- 60 seconds — about 130 words
- 90 seconds — about 195 words
- 2 minutes — about 260 words
- 3 minutes — about 390 words
- 5 minutes — about 650 words
Fast trimming order
Cut explanation before emotion. The opening, one story, and the final toast are the load-bearing parts.
- Remove repeated compliments
- Cut side characters from stories
- Replace backstory with one line of context
- Keep only one ending
Put it into practice