How long is a 1,500-word speech?
A 1,500-word speech takes about 10 min 43 s at an average pace of 140 words per minute, between 8 min 49 s if you speak fast and 13 min 38 s if you speak slowly.
| Speaking pace | Time for 1,500 words |
|---|---|
| Slow, deliberate (110 wpm) | 13 min 38 s |
| Average (140 wpm) | 10 min 43 s |
| Fast, energetic (170 wpm) | 8 min 49 s |
What a 10 min speech is usually for
At this length you're typically giving a eulogy, a sales demo, a pitch to investors or a session at a meetup. Some practical advice:
- Signpost the structure early ("three things…") so listeners can follow.
- Plan where slides or demos will slow you down; they eat into your word count.
- Rehearse with a timer and mark where you should be at the halfway point.
Why your word count can differ
- Pauses and reactions: laughter, applause and deliberate pauses can take 10–20% of the time.
- Slides and demos: switching slides or showing something on screen slows you down.
- Nerves: most people speak faster on the day than in rehearsal. Practise slightly under time.
- Reading vs. speaking: reading a script aloud is usually faster and flatter than talking from notes.
Speech time calculator
Frequently asked questions
How many minutes is a 1,500-word speech?
A 1,500-word speech takes about 10 min 43 s at an average pace of 140 words per minute, between 8 min 49 s if you speak fast and 13 min 38 s if you speak slowly.
What is a normal speaking pace?
Most people speak at 120–160 words per minute in a presentation; 140 is a good planning figure. Nervous speakers tend to speed up, so rehearse with a timer.
How can I make a 1,500-word speech shorter?
Cut background and repeated points first, then shorten examples. Removing about 140 words saves roughly a minute.