5 minute presentation word count

How Many Words are in a Five-Minute Speech?

How many words are in a five-minute speech?

Presenting a speech in front of a crowd of people can be scary. If you’re someone unaccustomed to giving big speeches, your palms may start to sweat and your body may shake, all before you ever utter your first word. It’s normal to experience stage fright. Most expert speakers agree, preparing well can be your best protection against nervousness. If you’re going to speak in public, it may help to write down the words you want to say.

Let’s imagine you need to give a 5-minute speech at a wedding. How much text should you prepare? In order to give that wedding toast, you should probably write 625-750 words. We arrived at that figure by taking the number of words per minute (WPM) that the average person speaks and multiplying it by the number of minutes you’ll need to speak, which is 5. The average person speaks 125-150 WPM.

Your writing, at its best

Compose bold, clear, mistake-free, writing with Grammarly's AI-powered writing assistant

It’s easy to do this math on your own. For a 3-minute speech, you would just multiply 125 by 3 to get the minimum number of words you’d need. The answer is 375. Now, picture a scenario where you have to give a 20-minute speech. What’s your maximum word count? Just take the high end of the WPM range and multiply it by 20. 

150 x 20 = 3,000

So, for a 20-minute speech, you’d be well-prepared by writing something with less than 3,000 words. Remember, if you prepare a text that’s too lengthy, you could get cut off before you reach your conclusion. 

A Note on Accuracy

Keep in mind, the average reading speed that’s cited above is just an average. You may find that you tend to talk faster or slower than other people. If you know you speak very quickly when you’re nervous, you may want to write an 850-word speech for your 5-minute toast, just to be safe. Someone who speaks slowly might only need 600 words to fill five minutes. 

In order to calculate your own speaking speed with precision, you should record yourself. That way, you’ll get an accurate personal WPM count, which reflects your true speaking pace. Once you have that figure, you can use it to calculate the word count for any speech you plan to give. It can also be helpful to rehearse with a stopwatch, whenever you’re working within a time limit. By timing yourself, you can see exactly how many seconds you need to cut or add to your speech. 

Advice for All Public Speakers

Excellent speakers practice their  presentation skills , so that they feel confident in their ability to make it through a speech without stumbling. It’s common for a speaker to write a phrase that looks good on the page. Then, when they present the speech, the phrase proves difficult to say out loud. By practicing your actual speech before going onstage, you’ll be able to identify your own speech patterns. If there’s a better way to say something, you can rewrite the words to make things flow more organically. 

Writing out a speech is a good idea; however, as you get more comfortable with speech writing, you may find yourself improvising more often. Someone very comfortable with  public speaking  can go “off script,” adding extemporaneous content, while still paying attention to the passage of time. Until you develop that advanced-level ability, it’s best to write out your speeches. Preparing something, even a simple outline with the key topics you want to discuss, can help you stay organized and calm.

Remember, the most important part of giving a speech is connecting with your audience . If you can do that, you’ll succeed no matter what subject matter you’re discussing.

• Seven-ways-to-write-a-better-speech
• https://wordcounter.net/blog/tag/5-minute-speech
• http://www.speechinminutes.com

The Word Counter  is a dynamic online tool used for counting words, characters, sentences, paragraphs, and pages in real time, along with spelling and grammar checking.

Kari Lisa Johnson

I’m an award-winning playwright with a penchant for wordplay. After earning a perfect score on the Writing SAT, I worked my way through Brown University by moonlighting as a Kaplan Test Prep tutor. I received a BA with honors in Literary Arts (Playwriting)—which gave me the opportunity to study under Pulitzer Prize-winner Paula Vogel. In my previous roles as new media producer with Rosetta Stone, director of marketing for global ventures with The Juilliard School, and vice president of digital strategy with Up & Coming Media, I helped develop the voice for international brands. From my home office in Maui, Hawaii, I currently work on freelance and ghostwriting projects.

Recent Posts

AOC Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

333 Angel Number Meaning In Love Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Leftist Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

7777 Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

Home Blog Presentation Ideas How to Create a 5 Minutes Presentation

How to Create a 5 Minutes Presentation

Giving a 40-60-minute speech isn’t a synonym for success. Sticking to shorter presentation formats can increase the impact of large-format events. Among its many advantages, allowing multiple speakers to give their insights rises above everything. Still, presenters often struggle to be concise, as they aim to disclose as much content as possible, ending up overdoing the allotted time or delivering rushed-up presentations.

In this article, we’ll share our experience on how to master the art of 3-5 minute presentations, keeping your speech concise while using powerful graphics to connect with the audience.

Table of Contents

What is a 5 Minutes Presentation?

What are the requirements of 5 minutes presentations, how many slides for a 5 minute presentation, 5 minute presentation ideas, how to make a 5 minute presentation, common mistakes to avoid in 5-minute presentations, recommended templates for 5 minute presentations, final words.

A 5-minute presentation is a short talk designed to convey a specific message, idea, information, or argument within a limited timeframe, between three to five minutes – the latter being the average duration. Due to the brevity, these presentations require careful planning and preparation to ensure the content is concise, focused, and impactful. 

We can define a five-minute presentation’s must-have(s) in seven different categories.

Objective Definition

The purpose of your talk has to be clear from the presentation planning phase. This implies acknowledging whether you intend to inform, persuade, inspire, or instruct your audience on a given topic.

On this behalf, we made a list of frameworks to help you pinpoint the core objective of your presentation:

• SPIN (Situation, Problem, Implication, Need-payoff): Intended for sales strategy or customer-driven presentations. The focus is set on understanding the audience’s situation, presenting the problems, implications, and potential benefits of a proposed solution.
• AIDA (Attention, Interest, Desire, Action): The AIDA framework is extremely popular in marketing campaigns and sales presentations. You can learn more about this approach for engaging presentations by checking our guide on the AIDA model .
• SCQA (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer): Intended for problem-solving meetings and business presentations. The SCQA framework establishes a context and its challenges, raises a question, and provides solutions for it.
• Minto Pyramid Principle: This unconventional approach is used for business presentations and reports, and was developed by Barbara Minto at McKinsey & Company in the 1970s . We start by stating the conclusion or core recommendation, then organize the information that supports your statement in a logical flow. By implementing this approach, you inspire the audience to think critically about the presented scenario, while discussing complex ideas in an easier-to-digest format due to its hierarchical organization of ideas.
• Monroe’s Motivated Sequence: A framework with a focus on persuasive presentations. It is structured by five pillars recognized by its author, Alan H. Monroe : Attention, Need, Satisfaction, Visualization, and Action. 

Concise Content

“How many words in a 5-minute speech” is a commonly asked question by beginner presenters. The average range for seasoned speakers is 130-150 words per minute in a fluent speech, and depending on the topic, that can go slower (technical-based presentations) or faster (motivational presentations, like the ones delivered by Tony Robbins ). 

Therefore, for a 5-minute speech, you might aim for:

• At 130 words per minute: 130×5=650 words
• At 150 words per minute: 150×5=750 words

That calculation can help you curate the script for your speech. In general lines, our expertise tells us that selecting a topic that can be covered within 5 minutes is roughly 60% of the job. After effectively selecting a topic, you must restrict the content to 2-3 main points to remain within the time limit and end your presentation in style. 

Presentation Structure

In more laid-back scenarios, presentations can lean toward a conversational mode rather than a strict agenda. Still, we ought to ensure the presentation structure contains an Introduction, a Body, and a Conclusion. 

The Introduction helps us familiarize the audience with what’s expected out of your presentation. Additionally, it is our chance to make a good first impression . Knowing how to start your presentation guarantees audience engagement from the initial moments of your delivery.

Moving to the Body, this is where facts are laid out and backed up using evidence or examples to support your view. Visual aids can contribute to minimizing the need for lengthy text walls. 

Finally, the Conclusion summarizes the key takeaways and, when applicable, brings a call to action in the format of thought-provoking statements, data shared, an irresistible offer, and plenty of other scenarios.

Audience Engagement

Connecting with the audience is vital, especially in short formats like Pecha Kucha presentations . Your speech pace and body language are significant factors that contribute to how the audience perceives your interest in their time. 

Aim for a relaxed but confident attitude, as if you were passionately talking about a topic with a group of acquaintances. This reinforces your authority in the topic you deliver, as being anxious or rushing through the presentation only speaks of a lack of interest.

Apply professional presentation techniques like storytelling for presentations or harnessing the power of visual communication strategies to make your message memorable. 

Audience Acknowledgement

Tailoring your presentation for the audience’s interest is the first step every presenter must take to guarantee success, especially if we’re another speaker in large-scale events. In some niches, like academic presentations, it is vital as some of the audience may not feel connected with your research topic. 

Based on information gathered from our customer’s feedback, a good recipe to connect with your audience is to work with a sales approach in mind and create your “ideal audience persona.” This would be your attendee who’s 100% connected with what you intend to share. Compare and contrast demographics with the public you know will attend, and find the common points and where you need to adjust your expectations to meet the audience’s interest.

If the event format allows for it, be ready to present questions at the end of your presentation that may drive the interest of a Q&A session.

Visual Aids

Slides featuring infographics , dashboards , or storytelling-based illustrations help to attract the spectator’s interest and increase the retention rate, as research proves it’s easier to recall pictures than words . As previously mentioned, leveraging graphics helps us reduce our slides’ word count.

Other presentation aids , like videos, audio, and even sensory elements such as smells, can drive a broad range of emotional responses within the audience. It’s worth exploiting this route if your presentation aims to persuade or motivate the spectators. 

Time Management

Last but not least, time management is an etiquette rule of respect for fellow presenters. Your content has to fit within the 5-minute limit, including transition times and variations in your delivery speed.

A good presenter is an adaptable one. Be ready to adjust your speech on the fly if you find yourself running short or long on time or if the audience’s interest drives the conversation briefly away from your intended destination.

Defining how many slides is a 5 minute presentation isn’t an automatic task. Some topics can be quickly resolved following the premises of the 1-2-3 rule for presentations, applying:

• One main message: Your presentation should center around a single, clear main message or idea. This ensures focus and helps your audience grasp the core of your presentation without getting lost in details. 
• Two supporting points: Support your main message with two strong, relevant points or arguments. This structure helps provide depth to your presentation without overwhelming your audience with too much information. 
• Three examples or pieces of evidence: For each supporting point, provide three examples, pieces of evidence, or data points to substantiate your arguments. This reinforces your message and helps in making your case more convincing.

In short, implementing this practice can result in a range between 5 and 10 slides in your 5-minute presentation. More complex topics, like medical presentations or scientific conferences, cannot be summarized easily, as graphs require one full slide for accurate data visualization. In this case, weigh the critical points your presentation must cover, assign a maximum of 3 slides per crucial point, and avoid filler content.

Googling around you can come across lists with 200, 60, 40, and plenty other title combinations referring to 5 minute presentation ideas. Despite it being a good starter to brainstorm potential topics or angles for your presentation, we shall introduce our method to implement AI tools to come up with 5 minute presentation topics. The following instructions apply to ChatGPT , Gemini (Bard) or Bing.

• Consider the niche in which you want to deliver a 5 minute presentation. 
• Gather the main keywords around the topic you intend to present. For example, if you want to deliver a presentation about artificial intelligence, the following keywords may suit your needs as well: AI, artificial intelligence chatbot, types of artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence solutions, what is artificial intelligence.
• Open your AI tool of preference and write the following prompt: “Give me a list of 20 5-minute presentation ideas in the IT niche that fit these keywords: AI, artificial intelligence chatbot, types of artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence solutions, what is artificial intelligence.”

And this is the list generated by ChatGPT-4

• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence: Basics of AI, its history, and evolution.
• Exploring AI Technologies: A dive into machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning.
• Types of Artificial Intelligence: From narrow (or weak) AI to general (or strong) AI, and superintelligence.
• AI Chatbots: Revolutionizing Customer Service: How chatbots are changing the customer service landscape across industries.
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Discussing AI solutions for diagnostics, treatment recommendations, and patient care.
• The Role of AI in Autonomous Vehicles: Examining how AI technologies power self-driving cars.
• Ethical Considerations in AI: The moral implications of AI in decision-making and privacy concerns.
• AI in Cybersecurity: Using artificial intelligence to predict, detect, and respond to cyber threats.
• The Impact of AI on Job Markets: How AI is reshaping employment opportunities and the workforce.
• Machine Learning Algorithms Explained: An overview of popular algorithms and their applications in AI.
• AI and Big Data: How AI algorithms process and analyze large datasets to extract meaningful insights.
• Natural Language Processing (NLP) in AI: Understanding how AI interprets, understands, and generates human language.
• AI in Finance: The use of artificial intelligence in fraud detection, algorithmic trading, and personalized banking.
• Artificial Intelligence for Environmental Sustainability: Exploring AI solutions for climate change, conservation, and sustainable energy.
• AI and Robotics: How AI is applied in robotics for automation, exploration, and manufacturing.
• Deep Learning and Neural Networks: An introduction to the architecture of neural networks and their significance in AI.
• Implementing AI Solutions in Small Businesses: Practical AI applications for improving efficiency and productivity in SMEs.
• The Future of AI: Predictions and emerging trends in artificial intelligence technologies.
• AI in Education: Personalized learning, automated grading, and AI’s role in educational institutions.
• Ethics and Bias in AI: Addressing the challenges of bias in AI algorithms and ensuring ethical AI development.

In this section, we will apply the explained suggestions earlier, approaching a real use case of a motivational speaker addressing an audience of marketing professionals. The speaker has to deliver a 5 minute presentation for a large onsite event.

Defining the Objective & Core Message

Our presenter is faced with the challenge of highlighting the importance of data analysis in marketing these days, and why marketing professionals should be adaptable to the latest trends. Therefore, using Minto’s Pyramid Principle, the presenter who already knows the answer – that hunch-based decisions need to be turned into data-driven decisions – plans how to convey the importance of that statement into the presentation’s flow.

Then, a powerful hook comes to mind on how to start this presentation: “Today, I want to share why embracing change isn’t just necessary; it’s our most powerful tool for growth in the marketing world.” Since that statement can sound somewhat vague, the presenter opts for a quote to impact the audience. A definition of what Social Listening is, indicating the connection between data and consumer behavior analysis.

Concise Content Tailored for the Audience

Research or inquire about the audience’s background in marketing. Are they novices or seasoned professionals? What challenges are they facing? Use this information to shape your presentation content.

In our presenter’s case, the event’s organizer gave some basic information about the demographics and audience’s background. Returning to the “ideal audience persona” concept, this presenter’s audience consists of mid-level marketing professionals facing rapid industry changes. Some already have experience working with data analytics but couldn’t extract the full potential. Therefore, rather than losing time with basics, the presenter prepares a compelling dashboard slide showing metrics of how working with data helped a client grow its revenue rate by 19% in three months.

The time limit for this presentation is 6 minutes in total, as a 1-minute Q&A session is contemplated. Therefore, using our word-per-minute calculation, the presenter opts for a 5 minute speech word count of 600 words, as it’s best to impact with powerful visuals and data storytelling rather than to rush the speech. As the recommended slide deck length for this presentation format is between 5 and 10 slides, the presenter opts for 3 extra slides, totaling 13 slides, since the two main points require 2-3 slides each.

The Introduction for this presentation is a powerful statement, as we mentioned above, taking one full minute to deliver the phrase and share the information that backs up such a statement.

The Body will take 3 minutes to be presented, and it shall cover a three-tier structure with the following premises:

• Challenge: “The digital marketing landscape is evolving faster than ever before, leaving many behind.”
• Strategy: “Yet, some marketers are thriving by adopting agile methodologies and data-driven strategies.”
• Success Story: “Take, for example, a small business that doubled its online engagement and grew its revenue rate by 19% in three months just by simply listening to its audience through social media analytics.”

The Conclusion takes another minute, using a powerful slide to leave a lasting thought that the audience can dwell on.

As the format is brief, the presenter will use powerful graphics to boost audience engagement. Additionally, there’s a short exercise at the beginning of the presentation where the speaker promptly says: “Turn to the person next to you and share one change you’ve embraced in your marketing strategy this year that made a difference.” This is a fine example of how to implement interactive presentation techniques to boost audience engagement.

Leveraging this kind of strategy helps the audience to connect with the importance of making changes in the marketing strategy of their work environments, but not just any change, something that’s measurable and has a significant impact. The presenter expects that not many members can successfully relate to change with results due to their inexperience in marketing data analytics – a piece of information disclosed by the event’s organizer – so the remaining of the presentation consists of ‘wowing’ the audience on the importance of data and how to measure that impact to stay tuned with the latest trends.

Although it seems an easy-to-adapt format, presenters working under 5-minute presentation can face some challenges that affect the overall outcome of their presentation delivery. Most of these presentation mistakes apply to any kind of presentation. In particular, we consider the following list as beginner mistakes we can easily prevent.

• Using Jargon or Complex Language: This can alienate your audience. Use clear, accessible language.
• Reading from Slides: This is literally “death by PowerPoint.” Use slides as a visual aid, not a script.
• Overuse of Animations or Transitions: While they can be engaging, too many can be distracting and appear unprofessional.

Check the following slide decks and PPT templates to maximize your performance in 3-5 minute presentations.

1. 5 Minute Business Marketing Presentation Template

Create eye-catching marketing presentations by using this best PPT template with a clean layout and wavy backgrounds. The information can be structured around the included icons, maximizing the retention rate by giving an area to focus on just the core information to be disclosed.

Use This Template

2. Business Executive 5-Minute Presentation Template

Geared toward business presentations, this slide deck layout contains cutting-edge graphics that grab your audience’s interest. It can be easily customized to speak about your company’s growth process, reach out to potential investors, or even for non-business topics.

3. Modern Hexagon 5-Minute Pitch Deck PowerPoint Template

Another clean layout template with vivid colors to highlight the information shared. This professional PPT slide deck helps us discuss data or compare features between competitor products in the blink of an eye. The color palette uses gradients to transition between sections smoothly.

4. Kaleidoscope 5-Minute Company Profile PowerPoint Template

Although it is intended for company profiles or company overview presentations, this highly visual PPT template can be repurposed for many niches. Due to its limited-space placeholder text areas, the 5 minute speech word count can be significantly reduced, aiming for concise content.

5. Academic 5-Minute Presentation Template

An ideal template for presenting thesis dissertations, this slide deck features designs to introduce the scope of our research, problem statement, methodology used, outcomes, and their significance while preserving a cohesive aesthetic.

As we can see, concise presentation formats like the 5 minute presentation have their own challenges when we strive for quality. Consider rehearsing your presentation multiple times, opting for the slideshow mode , to spot any areas where you can trim the speech or change text for graphics. 

Speak reasonably, and remember it’s best to fall short some seconds and allow for a Q&A session rather than rushing and not giving a proper closure to your speech.

Like this article? Please share

Presentation Approaches, Presentation Ideas Filed under Presentation Ideas

Related Articles

Filed under Design • March 27th, 2024

How to Make a Presentation Graph

Detailed step-by-step instructions to master the art of how to make a presentation graph in PowerPoint and Google Slides. Check it out!

Filed under Presentation Ideas • February 29th, 2024

How to Make a Fundraising Presentation (with Thermometer Templates & Slides)

Meet a new framework to design fundraising presentations by harnessing the power of fundraising thermometer templates. Detailed guide with examples.

Filed under Design • February 9th, 2024

How To Apply the 7×7 Rule in PowerPoint

Avoid dull or unclear presentation slides by implementing the 7×7 rule in PowerPoint presentation design. Check it out here.

Leave a Reply

How to Create an Engaging 5-Minute Presentation

Published: September 15, 2023

A 5-minute speech can feel both incredibly short and infinitely long.

While this short format encourages audiences to pay more attention, presenters often struggle to fit everything into five minutes even as they navigate nervousness that seems to stretch out each second.

As a result, preparation is key for 5-minute speech success.

But how can you ensure your presentation accomplishes everything it needs to within just five short minutes? We’ve put together an (appropriately condensed) guide on five-minute presentations to help you get started.

How many words are in a 5-minute presentation?

A five-minute presentation is approximately 700 words long. The average person speaks 120 to 160 words a minute, which means the average five-minute presentation is 600 to 800 words.

10 Free PowerPoint Templates

Download ten free PowerPoint templates for a better presentation.

• Creative templates.
• Data-driven templates.
• Professional templates.

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

To calculate your own personal speaking speed (words per minute, or WPM):

• Make an audio recording of yourself speaking for one minute.
• Use a free transcription service to generate a text version of your speech.
• The number of words you spoke in that minute is your personal WPM.

When constructing a longer presentation, you might be more concerned about transitions and keeping the audience engaged with more extensive narrative elements.

In a short presentation, everything you say should directly tie back to your central premise and further advance your main point.

Keeping a tight scope and using your words carefully ensures your time isn't wasted and the audience leaves with a clear, singular takeaway.

How many slides are in a 5-minute presentation?

Five or six slides, or about one per minute, is a good baseline for a 5-minute presentation. Depending on your subject matter, however, you might use up to 20 slides and spend about 10 or 15 seconds on each.

More important than your slide count is what each slide contains. It‘s a good rule of thumb to keep your slides simple and focused on visuals instead of text for a presentation of any length.

This becomes especially important when you’re dealing with a condensed presentation window.

Trying to cram in as much information as possible within a short time frame can be tempting. Resist the urge. Instead, focus on simple, clean visuals that all tie back to your central premise.

You can also use these free presentation templates to arrange your slides in a way that makes the most sense for your delivery and the content of your presentation.

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

How to Write an Ecommerce Business Plan [Examples & Template]

How to Create an Infographic in Under an Hour — the 2024 Guide [+ Free Templates]

20 Great Examples of PowerPoint Presentation Design [+ Templates]

Get Buyers to Do What You Want: The Power of Temptation Bundling in Sales

How to Start a Presentation [+ Examples]

17 PowerPoint Presentation Tips to Make More Creative Slideshows [+ Templates]

120 Presentation Topic Ideas Help You Hook Your Audience

How to Create the Best PowerPoint Presentations [Examples & Templates]

The Presenter's Guide to Nailing Your Next PowerPoint

How to Create a Stunning Presentation Cover Page [+ Examples]

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

How Many Words is a 5 Minute Speech?

You’re preparing to write a speech but there’s a 5-minute time limit. Now, you’re faced with the big question: How many words should you use then?

Any resource will tell you that you can only approximate the number of words it would take to write a 5-minute speech.

Publication coach Daphne Gray-Grant says that the average person speaks about 125-150 words per minute—meaning 5 minutes of talking would entail about 625-750 words. That’s about the typical length of a blog article!

Here’s a fun exercise for you—we’re keeping this blog article to 750 words so you can read it out loud to see if it would fit into the 5-minute time limit. How’s that for an experiment?

When you do this oral exercise, keep in mind that there are other factors which might affect the results. People speak in varying speeds—some speak slowly, others do the exact opposite. The good news is, it is easier to adjust the speed of delivery as compared to the number of words used. Beyond the word count, being able to communicate the essence of your speech clearly and eloquently is more important.

Pace Yourself

Pacing yourself helps you articulate better and emphasize the most salient parts of your speech. You’re not just putting yourself out there to say something — retention is key. You have to make your message (or at least the crux of it) memorable to your audience.

Just like a novel, the content needs to pack a punch in order to sustain the audience’s interest. If you think about it, a speech should work even harder because (1) it’s shorter and (2) it’s purely an aural experience which requires the full attention of your audience.

Before you start writing, Jeff Schmitt of Forbes advises keeping these two objectives in mind: “Make a good impression and leave your audience with two or three takeaways.”

Schmitt also highlights the importance of “striking the right tone.” Know your audience well, their reasons for wanting to listen to your speech, and what they want out of it.

Matt Eventoff of YPO elaborates on several “memorable ways to open a speech or presentation.” A quote, “what if” scenario, or statistic are some of the methods you can utilize to captivate your audience.

To make your speech more interesting, Gray-Grant advises “to tell stories or give examples” because stories “stick” and people actually recall them. Another approach is to use humor to break the monotony, but only when it serves an “organic” and relevant purpose for your topic or message. Try not to detract from the flow and coherence of your speech or from the essence of your message.

Just like what chapter breaks are to a novel, remember to integrate cues for pauses or breaks in between points of your speech in order to signal the end of one topic and to smoothly transition to the next.

Keep your language simple and conversational to maximize engagement with your audience. Scholastic gives some tips like using short sentences, contractions, and colloquialisms in your speech.

Avoid tongue-twisters or big words that are difficult to articulate in one breath. You will only subject yourself to potential blunders. This will deflate your confidence in delivering the speech effectively.

Most importantly, get your facts straight. Any speech can be engaging and witty, but people look for truthfulness and credibility more than anything. Citing concrete examples to prove a point is a persuasive method as well. Real-life actualizations are truths in the minds of your listeners. Thus, they will remain engaged on what else you have to say.

Toss a question or two for a bit of introspection. Some people actually do this either at the beginning or at the end of a speech. Making your audience think brings your message across more effectively because it opens up the opportunity for them to contemplate on an application of your insight into their daily lives.

After writing your speech, review the entire material for clarity and brevity. Simplify and tighten the language if need be.

Attention spans are shorter these days (8.25 seconds, according to a study made by the Static Brain Research Institute) so the more succinct you are, the better.

If you can, divide the word count equally among each salient point of your speech. For example, 750 words with 4 key topics would mean around 187 words dedicated for each topic.

Be concise yet comprehensive—and remember to use our word counter to keep it brief.

How to Write Essay Titles and Headers

Don’t overlook the title and section headers when putting together your next writing assignment. Follow these pointers for keeping your writing organized and effective.

101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Need a topic for your upcoming argumentative essay? We've got 100 helpful prompts to help you get kickstarted on your next writing assignment.

Writing a Standout College Admissions Essay

Your personal statement is arguably the most important part of your college application. Follow these guidelines for an exceptional admissions essay.

Speech Length: How Many Words Is A 5 Minute Speech

• October 21, 2023

Table of Contents:

Word count metrics for memorable speeches, a comprehensive guide to writing and delivering impactful 5 minute speeches, 1- dynamics of speech length, 2- the importance of timing in speeches, 3- engagement and audience attention, 4- timing tips for keeping audience engagement, 5- decoding the 5 minute speech, 6- word count guide for a 5 minute speech, 7- factors influencing speech speed, 8- examples of 5-minute speeches, 9- how to write a 5 minute speech, 10- planning and structuring your speech, 11- speech writing tips and techniques, 12- perfecting your 5 minute speech delivery, 13- practice makes perfect, 14- speech delivery techniques, use a conversational tone, maintain eye contact with your audience., modulate your voice, faqs about 5 minute speech, how many pages is a 5 minute speech, how many words per minute in a speech, how much does it cost to write a five minute speech, conclusion:.

Experience the whole article by listening!

When it comes to public speaking or presentations, understanding the concept of speech length is critical. The common question is, “How many words in a 5 minute speech?” It’s an interesting query, pointing towards the essence of timing and pace in speeches. 

In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of length, including factors that influence it and how to gauge the ideal number of words for a five-minute discourse. Whether preparing for a business presentation, a school debate, or a toast at a wedding, knowing how to manage your length effectively can be a game-changer.

Speech length isn’t just about counting words but also understanding the speech rate. According to various studies, the average speaking speed ranges from 125 to 150 words per minute (wpm). But this isn’t a hard and fast rule. Several factors can influence the speed at which a person speaks, including their natural speaking style, comfort level, and type of communication. For instance, a nervous speaker might rush through their points, while an experienced speaker might take their time, utilizing pauses for effect.

One might wonder why we stress timing in speeches. The answer lies in engaging and keeping the audience’s attention. We live in an era of short attention spans, where every second counts. A speech that drags on can lose its impact, leaving listeners bored or disinterested. In contrast, a speech that’s too rushed might leave the audience confused and unable to keep up. Therefore, balancing the timing and pacing of your speech is essential in delivering an effective presentation. The optimal length allows for a comfortable pace that aligns with the listeners’ attention span.

Understanding your audience’s attention span is paramount when it comes to speeches. It is reported that the human attention span is about 10-20 minutes long, depending on interest, distractions, and individual variations. Therefore, a 5-minute speech is an excellent duration to maintain audience engagement. If you’re looking for techniques on how to memorize a speech fast , we have resources that can help. It is short enough to keep the audience from losing interest and long enough to allow the speaker to deliver a compelling argument or tell a captivating story. 

Crafting an engaging speech isn’t just about the content; it’s also about managing your speech length. Breaking your speech down into digestible segments can help maintain audience engagement. Instead of providing an information overload, deliver your points concisely, and take regular pauses. This gives your audience time to process and absorb the information. Furthermore, using a conversational tone can make your speech more relatable, helping to keep your audience engaged throughout.

A 5-minute speech, given the average speech speed, can fit approximately 625 to 750 words. But remember, this is just an approximation. Each speaker is unique, and so is their rate of speech. Some people naturally speak faster, while others prefer a slower pace. Your comfort level, the complexity of your topic, and your audience can all impact your speaking speed.

An effective way to plan your 5-minute speech is to estimate the number of words it should contain. Here’s a rough guide:

• Slow speakers: 100 wpm, approximately 500 words in 5 minutes.
• Average speakers: 125-150 wpm, about 625-750 words in 5 minutes.
• Fast speakers: 200 wpm, nearly 1000 words in 5 minutes. Remember that these numbers are approximate and can vary based on several factors.

Speech speed can vary significantly from person to person due to language fluency, nervousness, and the nature of the communication. A speaker might talk faster due to nervousness or excitement, or they might speak slowly to emphasize points or create suspense. Moreover, a speaker might adjust their pace based on audience reactions. Knowing these factors can help you manage your length and deliver a successful presentation.

Examples of impactful 5-minute speeches abound in history. For instance, Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic ‘I Have a Dream’ speech lasted just over 5 minutes, as did Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. These speeches show you can deliver powerful messages within a brief period, provided you manage your speech length effectively.

Writing a 5-minute speech might seem challenging, but it’s a skill you can master with some practice and guidance. If you’ve ever considered taking your skills to a professional level and want to become a speech writer , there are steps you can take to make it a reality. Begin with a clear objective for your speech, and make sure every word you pen down serves that goal. 

Be concise and straight to the point. Also, consider your audience when crafting your speech. A complex topic might require simpler language to ensure comprehension, while an educated audience might appreciate the use of technical terms or industry jargon. Moreover, you can always have the option of speech writers for hire and get help from them.

Structuring your speech correctly is critical to effectively managing length. If you’re intrigued by the art of speech and its potential career paths, learn about how to become a speech therapist . Start with a strong and engaging opening, followed by your main points, and conclude with a powerful ending reinforcing your message. A well-structured speech keeps the audience engaged and helps you stay within your time limit. Remember, every word counts in a 5-minute speech, so avoid unnecessary fluff and focus on the message you wish to convey.

• Keep your sentences short and clear.

Short sentences are easier to speak and understand. They keep your speech crisp and to the point.

• Use bullet points to organize your thoughts.

Bullet points can help you break down complex ideas into digestible pieces, making it easier for your audience to understand and for you to speak.

• Avoid jargon or complex language.

Unless it’s necessary for your topic or audience, avoid complex language. Simple, everyday language makes your speech more relatable and easily understood.

Creating an impactful 5-minute speech isn’t just about the words you write – it’s also about how you deliver them. If you need assistance in creating impactful written pieces, you can always hire a book writer or explore our professional ghostwriting services . Speech delivery can make or break your presentation, regardless of how well-written your speech might be.  Therefore, understanding and perfecting the art of speech delivery is crucial.

The key to perfecting your 5-minute speech? Practice. And lots of it. Rehearsing your speech multiple times helps you get comfortable with the words and also helps you understand how to manage your speech length effectively. By practicing, you can gauge whether you need to slow down or speed up, take more pauses, or emphasize certain points more.

Here are some tips to improve your speech delivery:

This makes your speech sound natural and engaging. It also helps manage your speech length, as you’re less likely to rush or slow down too much.

This helps keep the audience engaged and gives you feedback on how well your speech is being received.

This helps keep your audience interested and makes your speech more dynamic. Changing your pitch, tone, and volume can emphasize certain points and manage the overall speech length.

The number of pages in a 5-minute speech depends on your speaking pace and formatting choices. Here’s a breakdown:

• Average speaking pace: 100-120 words per minute
• 5-minute speech word count: 500-650 words
• Pages at 12pt font, single-spaced:  1-1.5 pages

Remember, this is just an estimate. Consider these factors for more precise results:

• Your actual speaking speed:  Time yourself delivering your speech to gauge your pace.
• Font size and spacing:  Larger fonts or double spacing will increase page count.
• Visual elements:  If you include slides or images, they won’t add to page count but affect delivery timing.

The average English speaker utters approximately 130 words per minute. A brisk speaker may reach up to 160 words per minute, while a more deliberate speaker might use around 100 words. Understanding your natural pace is key to delivering a well-timed and engaging speech.

A five minute speech would be around 500 words to 650 words.” Writing a 5 minute speech typically ranges from $250 to $300, influenced by factors such as complexity, writer experience, and customization

Understanding speech length and managing it is a valuable skill in public speaking. If you need to have your skills or achievements documented, Wikipedia writers for hire can help. Keeping your speech within the optimal length can maintain audience engagement and effectively convey your message. 

Whether you’re a fast speaker or slow, a seasoned orator, or a novice speaker, mastering the art of the 5-minute speech is a skill that can be honed with practice and understanding. Remember, it’s not just about the number of words but how you use them that counts.

limited Time offer

50% off on all services.

REDEEM YOUR COUPON: VHBA50

Recommended Blogs

How to write an autobiography: 11 simple steps, the top-selling christian fiction authors of all time, how to become a speech therapist – 10 easy steps, hire book authors & publishers at discounted rates looking for a book author or publisher contact us for a free consultation and get 30% off your first project..

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Convert words to time

How Many Words is a 5 Minute Speech

How many pages is a 5 minute speech.

Font: Arial; Line spacing: 1

Font: Arial; Line spacing 1,5

Word Counter

Word Count: 0

Online Stopwatch

How Many Words in a 5 Minute Speech (Word Count)?

December 22, 2022

It’s helpful to write the script of a speech before delivering it live. However, it’s normal to be unsure of what number of words is enough. This article explains how many words to include in 5 minute, 3 minute, 7 minute speech, 10 minute speech and the formula behind it. We’ll also cover how quickly or slowly to speak in different situations.

How to Use AI to Figure Out How Many Words Are in a 5 Minute Speech

One of the ways you can figure out how many words are in a 5 minute speech is through an AI speech coach like Yoodli . You can record or upload a video of yourself speaking for 5 minutes and Yoodli takes care of the rest.

This speech coach gives you a personalized report of all your speaking analytics, from your word choice to your speaking pace and filler word usage. It’ll use these metrics to give you actionable feedback on not just your speaking abilities, but your speech content as well.

Included in your individualized report is a transcript, which you can then use to calculate how many words are in a 5 minute speech. Just copy and paste the transcript into a word count calculator (and edit the transcript however you feel fit) and you can find out how many words were in your 5 minute speech. It’s that easy!

Plus, this method works for any length of speech, from 5 to 10 minutes and beyond.

How to Calculate Number of Words in a Speech

Most native English speakers speak at 140 words per minute (this varies across cultures). The typical conversational pace lies in the range from 130 to 170 words per minute. While average numbers for speaking rates are helpful, note that the variation in pace is what makes a speech interesting — you want to go fast in sections that convey excitement and slow down to pause in areas where you want the audience to think.

Software to Calculate Number of Words in a Speech

Try Yoodli’s free AI speech coaching app to see how quickly you speak. Yoodli will instantly generate your pacing analytic and compare how you did relative to celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Barrack Obama. You’ll also see an instant transcript of your speech to help you count the number of words. Here are typical speaking rates for speeches run through Yoodli:

• Steve Jobs: 170 words per minute (WPM) ( analytics )
• Barrack Obama: 129 WPM ( analytics )
• Oprah Winfrey: 134 WPM ( analytics )
• Elon Musk: 172 WPM ( analytics )

Examples of Words per Minute Depending on Speaker Type

It may not always be appropriate to speak at a conversational pace. For instance, if you’re speaking at a eulogy , you might want to come across as somber and speak more slowly.

In the same vein, you might consider speaking slower when addressing an audience that may not speak your language or won’t understand your topic (speaking more slowly gives them an opportunity to internalize what’s being said).

Alternatively, if you’re trying to demonstrate passion and excitement you might want to speak much faster than conversational pace. Think of the soccer broadcaster celebrating a World Cup goal. If they spoke at an average pace, we wouldn’t know that the goal is a crucial moment or something to celebrate.

We’ve listed some average speaking rates below:

Average speech rates

• Presentations : Between 120 and 150 WPM for a comfortable pace
• Conversational : Between 120 and 170 WPM
• Audiobooks : Between 150 and 160 WPM, which is the upper range that people comfortably hear and vocalize words
• Radio hosts and podcasters : Between 150 and 160 WPM
• Auctioneers : Can speak at about 250 WPM
• Commentators : Between 250 and 400 WPM

How Many Words Are in a 5 Minute Speech?

Most speakers have 650 to 850 words in a 5 minute speech, with the average at around 700 words.

How Many Words Are in a 3 Minute Speech?

Most speakers have 390 to 510 words in a 5 minute speech, with the average at around 420 words.

How Many Words Are in a 6 Minute Speech?

Most speakers have 780 to1,020 words in a 7 minute speech, with the average at around 840 words.

How Many Words Are in a 7 Minute Speech?

Most speakers have 910 to 1,190 words in a 7 minute speech, with the average at around 980 words.

How Many Words Are in a 10 Minute Speech?

Most speakers have 1,300 to 1,700 words in a 7 minute speech, with the average at around 1,400 words.

Start practicing with Yoodli.

Getting better at speaking is getting easier. Record or upload a speech and let our AI Speech Coach analyze your speaking and give you feedback.

How Many Words is a 5 Minute Speech?

• February 19, 2024
• E-Learning Software

Table of Contents

How Many Words is a 5 Minute Speech? A 5-minute speech typically has 625-750 words, based on an average speaking rate of 125-150 words per minute.

Public speaking can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to time management. One of the most frequently asked questions is, “How many words is a 5 minute speech?” Understanding speech length is crucial for effective communication and delivery. Whether it’s a presentation at work, a wedding toast, or a TED Talk, knowing how to structure your speech is key to capturing your audience’s attention and delivering your message effectively.

To answer the question, “How many words is a 5 minute speech?” the answer varies depending on the speaker’s pace and style. However, on average, a 5 minute speech consists of approximately 750-900 words. This number can vary depending on the complexity of the topic, the speaker’s delivery style, and the audience’s attention span. Understanding the components of a speech, such as the introduction, body, and conclusion, can help structure your speech and ensure that you stay within the allotted time frame.

Key Takeaways

• A 5 minute speech typically consists of 750-900 words.
• Understanding the components of a speech, such as the introduction, body, and conclusion, can help structure your speech and ensure you stay within the allotted time frame.
• Utilizing speech length tools and resources can help adapt to different speech formats and ensure effective delivery.

Link to external resource: How to Write a Speech: Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Speech Length

When it comes to public speaking, one of the most common questions people have is how many words they should prepare for a certain amount of time. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding speech length can help you estimate how many words you need to write for a 5 minute speech.

Words Per Minute (WPM)

The average speaking rate for an English speaker is around 125-150 words per minute (WPM). However, this can vary based on factors such as the speaker’s accent, the topic, and the audience. Some speakers may speak faster or slower than this average rate, so it’s important to consider your own speaking rate when estimating the length of your speech.

Average Speaking Rate

To get a more accurate estimate of your own speaking rate, you can record yourself speaking for a few minutes and count the number of words you say. Then, divide the total number of words by the number of minutes you spoke to get your average speaking rate. This can help you determine how many words you need to prepare for a 5-minute speech.

Speech Time Variations

It’s important to note that speech time can vary based on factors such as pauses, audience reactions, and unexpected interruptions. It’s a good idea to practice your speech several times and time yourself to get a better idea of how long it will take you to deliver the speech. This will also help you identify any areas where you may need to adjust your speaking rate or cut down on the number of words.

To learn more about speech length and how to estimate the number of words you need for a certain amount of time, check out this resource , which provides tips and guidelines for estimating speech length.

Components of a Speech

When it comes to giving a speech, there are a few key components that can make or break its success. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most important aspects of speechwriting and delivery.

Structuring Your Speech

One of the first things to consider when crafting a speech is its structure. A well-organized speech will be easier for your audience to follow and understand. This can be achieved through the use of an outline , which can help you to organize your thoughts and ensure that your speech flows logically from one point to the next.

Incorporating Pauses

Pauses are an important part of speech delivery, as they can help to emphasize key points and give your audience time to digest the information you’re presenting. They can also help to break up the monotony of a long speech and keep your audience engaged . When incorporating pauses into your speech, it’s important to practice your delivery so that you can strike the right balance between too many and too few pauses.

Engagement Elements

Engagement is key to keeping your audience interested and invested in your speech. There are a number of elements you can incorporate into your speech to help achieve this, including humor, stories, and interesting facts. These elements can help to make your speech more relatable and memorable, and can also help to establish a connection between you and your audience.

To learn more about crafting a successful speech, check out this guide from Toastmasters International .

Speech Writing and Preparation

Crafting Your Message

Crafting a message for a speech is a crucial step in preparing a successful presentation. The message should be clear, concise, and relevant to the audience. The speaker should consider the purpose of the speech, the main points to be covered, and the desired outcome. It is important to organize the message in a logical and coherent manner to ensure that the audience can follow along. The use of storytelling, anecdotes, and humor can also help to engage the audience and make the message more memorable.

Rehearsal and Timing

Rehearsal is key to delivering a successful speech. It allows the speaker to become familiar with the material and to identify areas that may need improvement. Timing is also an important factor to consider. The speaker should aim to deliver the speech within the allotted time frame to keep the audience engaged and to ensure that all key points are covered. A useful tool for timing a speech is to practice with a timer or stopwatch.

Audience Analysis

Understanding the audience is crucial to delivering an effective speech. The speaker should consider the demographics of the audience, their interests, and their knowledge of the topic. This information can help to tailor the message and delivery to better engage the audience. The use of visual aids, such as slides or videos, can also be effective in capturing the audience’s attention.

To learn more about speech writing and preparation, check out this resource .

Delivery Techniques

When it comes to delivering a speech, the content is only part of the equation. The way in which a speaker delivers their message can make all the difference in how it is received by the audience. Here are some key delivery techniques to keep in mind when preparing a speech.

Pacing and Tone

Pacing and tone are important aspects of speech delivery. A speaker should aim to speak at a pace that is comfortable for the audience to follow, without rushing through the content or speaking too slowly. Varying the tone and inflection of the voice can help to keep the audience engaged and interested in the speech.

Language and Clarity

Using clear, concise language is essential for effective speech delivery. A speaker should aim to use language that is appropriate for the audience and easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar to the audience. It is also important to enunciate words clearly and avoid speaking too quickly.

Handling Questions

Handling questions effectively is an important part of speech delivery. A speaker should be prepared to answer questions from the audience and should aim to do so in a clear and concise manner. It is important to listen carefully to the question being asked and to take time to formulate a thoughtful response.

To learn more about effective delivery techniques, check out this resource . Toastmasters is a well-respected organization that provides resources and training for public speaking.

Speech Length Tools and Resources

When preparing a speech, it is essential to know how many words are needed to fill a specific amount of time. Fortunately, there are numerous speech length tools and resources available online that can help you determine the appropriate length of your speech.

Word Counters and Calculators

One of the most effective tools for calculating the number of words in your speech is a word counter. Word counters are available online and can quickly determine the exact number of words in your speech. Some popular word counters include WordCounter.net and Word Count Tool. These tools are simple to use and provide accurate word counts for your speech.

Speaking Time Estimators

Another useful tool for determining the length of your speech is a speaking time estimator. Speaking time estimators use the number of words in your speech to calculate the approximate length of time it will take to deliver it. Some popular speaking time estimators include SpeechinMinutes.com and Speech Length Calculator. These tools are particularly useful when preparing for a time-limited speaking engagement.

It is important to note that while these tools are helpful, they should not be relied upon entirely. Factors such as speaking pace, audience engagement, and pauses can all affect the actual length of your speech. Therefore, it is always a good idea to practice your speech before delivering it to ensure that it fits within the allotted time.

For more information on speech length tools and resources, visit the National Speakers Association website. They provide a comprehensive list of resources that can help you prepare for your next speaking engagement.

Overall, utilizing these tools and resources can help you prepare a well-timed and effective speech.

Adapting to Different Speech Formats

When it comes to delivering a speech, there are various formats to consider. From informative to persuasive speeches, each format requires a different approach to effectively convey the intended message. Additionally, adjusting for different time frames is crucial to ensure that the speech is neither too long nor too short. In this section, we will explore the different formats of speeches and how to adapt to them.

Informative vs. Persuasive Speech

Informative speeches are designed to educate or inform the audience about a particular topic. They are often used in academic settings or to share information about a specific subject. On the other hand, persuasive speeches are intended to convince the audience to take a particular action or adopt a specific point of view. They are commonly used in political campaigns, advertising, and sales.

When delivering an informative speech, it’s essential to provide accurate and relevant information while keeping the audience engaged. Using visual aids, such as graphs and charts, can help illustrate complex concepts and make the speech more engaging. In contrast, persuasive speeches require a more emotional approach to appeal to the audience’s emotions and convince them to take action.

Adjusting for Different Time Frames

The length of a speech is a crucial factor to consider when planning a presentation. Depending on the occasion, speeches can range from a one-minute elevator pitch to a 30-minute keynote address. It’s essential to adjust the speech’s content to fit within the allotted time frame to ensure that the audience remains engaged and the message is effectively conveyed.

According to an article by Forbes, a five-minute speech should be around 600-750 words. This estimate allows for a comfortable speaking pace and time for pauses and audience interaction. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the ideal word count may vary depending on the speaker’s delivery style and the complexity of the topic.

In conclusion, adapting to different speech formats is crucial to deliver an effective presentation. Understanding the differences between informative and persuasive speeches and adjusting for different time frames can help ensure that the message is effectively conveyed. By using appropriate visual aids and adjusting the speech’s content to fit the allotted time frame, speakers can engage their audience and leave a lasting impression.

Here is a link to an external resource that provides more information on how to deliver a five-minute speech effectively.

Final Review and Adjustments

After finalizing the speech content, it’s essential to review it thoroughly before delivering it to the audience. The review process helps to ensure that the speech conveys the intended message and is within the allotted time limit.

One useful tool for reviewing a speech is a timer. By timing the speech, the speaker can determine if the speech is too long or too short. As a general rule of thumb, a five-minute speech should consist of approximately 750 words. However, the actual number of words may vary depending on the speaker’s pace and style.

Another aspect to consider during the review process is the core message or essence of the speech. The core message should be clear and concise, and the speech should revolve around it. The speaker should ensure that the speech stays on topic and does not deviate from the core message.

After reviewing the speech, the speaker may receive feedback from others. Feedback can be valuable in improving the speech and making necessary adjustments. It’s important to consider the feedback received and make changes that align with the core message and intended audience.

In conclusion, reviewing and adjusting a speech is a critical step in delivering an effective presentation. By reviewing the speech, considering the core message, and incorporating feedback, the speaker can ensure that the speech is engaging, informative, and within the allotted time limit. For more information on how to deliver a compelling speech, check out this resource from TED Talks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal word count for a 5-minute speech?

The ideal word count for a 5-minute speech varies depending on the speaker’s pace, style, and topic. However, a general rule of thumb is that a 5-minute speech should be around 750-900 words. This word count allows for the speaker to convey their message effectively without rushing or dragging on.

How does speech pacing affect the word count of a 5-minute presentation?

Speech pacing can greatly affect the word count of a 5-minute presentation. If a speaker talks too fast, they may need to reduce the word count to avoid rushing through their speech. On the other hand, if a speaker talks too slowly, they may need to increase the word count to avoid running out of material before the allotted time is up.

What is the average speaking rate in words per minute for a speech?

The average speaking rate in words per minute for a speech is around 125-150 words. However, this can vary depending on the speaker’s pace, style, and topic. It is important for the speaker to find a comfortable speaking rate that allows them to convey their message clearly and effectively.

How can I estimate the length of my speech in minutes based on word count?

To estimate the length of a speech in minutes based on word count, divide the total number of words by the average speaking rate in words per minute. For example, a 750-word speech at an average speaking rate of 125 words per minute would be approximately 6 minutes long.

What are some tips for fitting my speech into a 5-minute time frame?

Some tips for fitting a speech into a 5-minute time frame include practicing pacing, using pauses effectively, and focusing on the most important points. It can also be helpful to time the speech during practice runs to ensure that it fits within the allotted time.

How do different speech styles or topics influence the number of words used in 5 minutes?

Different speech styles or topics can greatly influence the number of words used in a 5-minute speech. For example, a persuasive speech may require more words to effectively argue a point, while a humorous speech may require fewer words to convey a joke. It is important for the speaker to consider their style and topic when determining the ideal word count for their speech.

For more information on speech writing and delivery, check out Toastmasters International .

Compare hundreds of E-Learning Software in our Software Marketplace

Discover the best software tools for your business, our recommended apps.

Trusted by 1000+ companies, eloomi's user-friendly platform combines...

MedTrainer is more than a standard learning management...

eFront is the enterprise learning management system engineered...

Improving lives through better education. At 2U, we...

Brainingcamp is your all-in-one place for teaching math...

Yo!Coach is a white-label software that allows entrepreneurs...

Aktiv Mind LMS provides an online cloud based...

We’re an aspiring team of Academicians, Technologists and...

EDUCBA is a leading global provider of skill...

LMS Monks is a leading provider of innovative...

Is SEO Worth It? A Clear and Confident Answer

Is SEO worth it ? Yes, SEO is worth it. It boosts visibility, drives organic traffic, enhances user experience, and increases ROI for long-term business

Employee Rewards Programs: Boosting Employee Engagement and Retention

What is an employee rewards programs ? Employee rewards programs incentivize performance by offering benefits like bonuses, gifts, or recognition to boost morale and retention.

Small Business Attorney: Everything You Need to Know

What is a small business attorney ? A small business attorney specializes in legal issues that affect small companies, from startup law to contracts and

Thank You Cards for Business: Best Practices and Examples

What are thank you cards for business ? Thank you cards for business are personalized notes expressing gratitude, enhancing customer relationships and boosting loyalty. Thank

Privacy Overview

• AI Title Generator
• Poem Title Generator
• Book Title Generator
• YouTube Title Generator
• Essay Title Generator
• Title Rewriter
• Title Capitalization
• Sentence & Paragraph Rewriter
• Essay Writer
• Book Title Wizard
• Character Name Generator
• Name Generators
• Pokemon Name Generator
• Character Backstory Generator
• Song Generator
• Poem Generator
• Word Search Puzzles
• Ideation Articles
• Random Topic Generator
• Writing Prompt Generator
• Random Essay Title Generator
• Writing Articles
• Online Word Counter
• Online Grammar Checker
• Headline Analyzer
• Best Book Writing Software and Book Writing Apps
• 150 Best Resources for Writers
• Productivity
• English Language
• Grammar Tips
• Headline Analyzer Tool
• Title Capitalization Rules
• For WordPress
• Publishing Articles
• Email Marketing
• Book Articles
• How to Get A Book Published
• Best Literary Agencies
• How To Self Publish a Book

How Many Words Are in a 5 Minute Long Speech?

Answer: At the normal speaking rate of 130 words per minute (wpm), a 5 minutes long speech will have about 650 words .

Speech and publication coach Daphne Gray-Grant  found that, on average, people speak at a rate of 125 to 150 wpm so a 5 minutes long speech uses between 625 to 750 words.

You can use our word counter tool to see how long on average your text will take to speak.

How can you measure your spoken words per minute?

To quickly know what your speaking rate is, write a 650-word essay and then get out a stopwatch. Time how long it takes you to speak all of the words in the essay.

Once you’ve finished, divide the word count (650 words) by the number of minutes in decimals (30 seconds = 0.5 minutes) and you’ll get an estimate of your words per minute speaking rate.

For example, if it takes you 4.5 minutes to speak 650 words, you would do 650 divided by 4.5 and get 144 words per minute.

Word Count per Speech Length

To quickly find out how many words a typical speaking length requires, see the table below. You can quickly map word counts to typical speaking rates:

• Accessibility

Forgot your password?

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive mail with link to set new password.

Back to login

• Word Counter
• Character Counter
• Scrabble Word Finder
• Pomodoro Timer

How Many Words In A 5 Minute Speech?

You might be tasked to deliver a 5-minute speech by your boss or for a class. Now you wonder, how many words does a 5-minute speech has? Can you fit everything you want to say in the speech? Do you enough material to fill those five minutes? Wonder no more, because we have the answer to your questions.

People talk differently – we all have different speeds when speaking. Some speak so slow that one can almost fall asleep waiting for them to finish. On the other hand, some people speak so fast you can’t understand what they’re saying. But according to experts, an average person speaks from 120 to 150 words per minute.

As a result, a 5-minute speech has 625 to 750 words.

Now, let’s talk about writing your speech.

You can fill up the word quota, but that doesn’t automatically mean that you have a good speech. It still boils down to the speech’s content and your ability to engage the audience. Like a good book, you need to have your audience’s full attention. But unlike a book, writing a speech is harder. As it’s shorter and it’s a solely aural experience. You need to be more impactful and your speech should pack a punch.

To help you with that, here are some pointers:

1. Quality, Not Quantity

While word count is important, focus more on the points you want to come across in your speech. Focus on two or three points that you deem the most important.

Don’t cram too much information in those five minutes you’re speaking. One reason is that you’ll just go shallow and broad in your topic. Second, you may sound robotic – something the audience don’t want to hear.

2. Use Humour If Possible

Cracking a good-natured joke will definitely break the ice. It will also break the monotony. However, keep in mind that the humour you use is relevant to your topic, and doesn’t stray from the original point you want to impart.

3. Research And Get Your Facts Straight

A good speech relies on the credibility and authenticity of what you’re saying. Yes, a speech should be witty and engaging, but it should also be rooted to the truth, especially if you’re talking about historical topics or things that deal with statistics. Make sure that your data are timely and come from a reputable source.

4. Tell A Story

While a speech should be educational, that doesn’t mean it should not be entertaining. To make your speech more relatable and memorable, tell a story and give examples of what you’re talking about in your speech. This way, your speech will stick to your audience’s minds after. But still – make sure that the story is relevant to your topic, don’t go off-course!

5. Keep It Simple

The language you use in your speech should be clear, simple, and easily understandable. This is to make sure that you get the maximum engagement from your audience. Use short sentences, contractions, and slangs in your speech. Make sure to know what type of audience you’ll have beforehand so that you’ll know what type of language you’ll use.

Aside from that, avoid using words you can’t speak in one breath, or tongue twisters. This will only lessen your chance to deliver your speech effectively.

6. Test It Out

To make sure that you don’t go over the time limit, write your full speech and then try reading it as if you’re already delivering it. This way, you’ll know which parts to simplify, edit, or condense. A tip is to divide your 750 words into the points you want to impart. For example, if you have three main points, you can use 250 words for each.

Writing a speech can be daunting but we hope that through these tips, you can do it well! Now, chop chop, go write your speech! You can use our word counter tool for the accurate word count. Happy writing!

Previous Post

October 05, 2019

September 16, 2019

September 11, 2019

September 10, 2019

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative
• Introduction
• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery
• How to make cue cards
• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• About me/contact
• Speech delivery
• How many words per minute in a speech

How many words per minute in a speech?

A quick guide for slow, average and fast rates of speech.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

If you're preparing a speech or presentation with a strict time limit it’s useful to have an estimate of the number of words you’ll need to fit the number of minutes you've been given.

And it's even more useful to have those guidelines before you rush into writing, only to discover when you’re done, you’ve written far too much. Something I used to do on a regular basis! (And then, I had the tedious job of pruning to fit.)

What's on this page:

How many words are there in a 1-minute speech, how many words are there in a 2-minute speech, how many words are there in a 3-minute speech, how many words are there in a 4-minute speech, how many words are there in a 5-minute speech, how many words are there in a 6-minute speech, how many words are there in a 7-minute speech, how many words are there in an 8-minute speech, how many words are there in a 9-minute speech, how many words are there in a 10-minute speech, how many words are there in a 15-minute speech, how many words are there in a 20-minute speech, how many words are there in a 25-minute speech, how many words are there in a 30-minute speech.

• How to calculate your own speech rate: 2 easy methods
• How many pages is a 4, 7 or 20-minute speech?     

About this quick reference guide

The following table (below) shows the average number of words spoken per minute for speeches from 1 to 30 minutes long. It's a quick reference guide: one only intended to provide general information.

Who, and what, is truly average?

An average word count for any timed speech (one minute, two minutes, three, four, five, six...or more, minutes) is impossible to give. As there really is no such thing as an average person, who uses an average rate of words per minute when they speak.

We are individuals: each of us different. Speech patterns and speech (speaking) rates vary considerably between person to person for a great many reasons. The best you’ll ever get is an educated guess.

Use as an estimate: test yourself to be sure

That aside, the following estimates will give you a handy indication of the number of minutes it takes to say x number of words depending on whether you talk at a slow speed, a medium speed or you're one of the world's fast talkers.

(And, no, it's never a good idea to gabble at a mile a minute to fit everything you've prepared into the length of time you've been given!)

To be absolutely sure what you've done will fit the time allocation you've been given it's a good idea to test yourself to establish your own speaking rate or speed of speech .

How many pages is a 'x' minute speech?

Multiple variations on the question how many pages are needed for a speech are frequently asked. For instance:

• How many pages is a 4-minute speech?
• How many pages is a 7-minute speech?
• How many pages is a 20-minute presentation?

Unfortunately, the answer is not simple. Calculating the number of A4 pages of text you need for a speech of any number of minutes long is tricky for two reasons.

How many words are on an A4 page?

The first reason is that the number of words on an A4 page depends on how the page has been formatted. The answers to the questions below make a very big difference to the total number of pages needed to print a speech.

• What is the font family being used? (Different fonts take up differing amounts of space because of the shape/design of their characters.)  
• What is the size of the font? (The font size you're reading right now is 20px.)
• What is the spacing between each of the letters in a word?
• What is the spacing between each line of text? Is it single spacing, 1.5 or double line spacing?
• What spacing has been set for paragraphs?
• What size have the margins of the page been set at?
• Are there headings? Sub-headings or lists?

On average if the font is plain, (sans-serif, without embellishment), like Arial or Verdana, its size is set for 12px, and the line spacing is set for 1.5, then a page may have between 400-500 words on it.

Speech rate changes how we calculate the number of words we need

The second reason why using the number of pages to gauge how long a speech will take to deliver is problematical is because we speak at different rates. 

A 500-word page may take someone speaking at very slow rate 4 minutes to get through.

Another person, who has a much faster speaking rate, may take about 2.5 minutes to deliver exactly the same text.

Using the number of pages as a guide for a speech that has to fit a time limit is completely unreliable.

If you need to use a 'guesstimate' use the speech rate table below. Forget about counting the pages! 

If you are a slow speaker, less than 120 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 120 - 160 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 160 - 200 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 240 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 240 - 320 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 320 - 400 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 360 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 360 – 480 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 480 - 600 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 480 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 480 – 640 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 640 - 800 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 600 words,

If you speak at an average speed between: 600 – 760 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 760 - 1000 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 720 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 720 – 960 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 960 - 1200 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 840 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 840 – 1120 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 1120 - 1400 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 960 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 960 – 1280 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 1280 - 1600 words.

If you are a slow speaker less than 1080 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 1080 – 1440 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 1440 - 1800 words.

If you are a slow speaker a little less than 1200 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 1200 – 1600 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 1600 - 2000 words.

If you are a slow speaker, a little less than 1,800 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 1,800 - 2,400 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 2,400 - 3,000 words.

If you are a slow speaker, a little less than 2,400 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 2,400 - 3,200 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 3,200 - 4,000 words.

If you are a slow speaker, a little less than 3,000 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 3,000 - 4,000 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 4,000 - 5,000 words.

If you are a slow speaker, a little less than 3,600 words.

If you speak at an average speed between: 3,600 - 4,800 words.

If you are a fast speaker between: 4,800 - 6,000 words.

Return to Top

Find out more about speech rate

• How to calculate your own words per minute speech rate - two easy methods
• The factors influencing a faster rate or slower rate of speech
• How to develop an ideal rate of speech : one matching content, speech purpose and your audience: six exercises for flexible speaking rate

Words per minute calculator

Lastly here's the link to a useful online words per minutes calculator . Once you've completed your speech enter the total number of words, and select whether you want it to give you an average for a minute of your speech at a slow rate, average or fast rate. Again, it's a 'guesstimate'. ☺

The only really safe way to find out whether your speech fits your time allocation is to say it aloud at an ideal rate or pace: one taking into account the content, and the audience who is going to listen to it, while timing it.

(Use the record function on your phone. It will assist in lots of other ways too! You'll hear where you need more vocal variety, where your pronunciation is blurred ...and, so on. It's super helpful.)

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Farewell speeches
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Blogging Aloud
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

Ultimate 5 Minute Speeches & Presentations (A-Z Guide)

Hrideep barot.

• Presentation , Speech Topics

“If you want me to give you a two-hour presentation, I am ready today. If you want only a five-minute speech, it will take me two weeks to prepare.”  ― Mark Twain

Delivering presentations and speeches can be challenging, especially if you have a short time. Covering the essential information you wish to convey and making an impact in these 5 minutes requires much backend work. The good news is that individuals are more likely to retain succinct but significant content than a long but tedious speech.

It’s important to remember some things when delivering a 5-minute speech, such as developing a thorough overview, allocating time for each slide, refraining from memorizing or monotonously reciting your information, using actions rather than words, including compelling visuals, sharing supplementary information for use after the speech, and practicing a lot more—at least three times more—than usual.

How Many Words are there in a 5-Minute Presentation?

Considering that an average person talks 120 to 160 words per minute, a five-minute presentation will typically be between 600 and 800 words long. When you deliver such a brief presentation, a few pointers need to be kept in mind –

• Every statement you make during a brief presentation should be related to your main idea and the message you want to get through.
• It is beneficial to avoid wasting time and make sure that the audience has only one clear takeaway by keeping your scope narrow and utilizing your words sparingly.

While this is just an average, it can vary depending on the speed at which you speak, the topic that you choose, and your thoroughness with the content. To know how many words you will be needing in a 5-minute presentation, you can –

• Find out how many words are read in 5 minutes by timing yourself as you read a speech or an article.
• Use useful internet resources like the Speech Calculator to determine how many words you will require based on your speech rate.

Tips to keep in mind for your 5-minute Presentation:-

1. give a comprehensive overview.

When you have just 5 minutes to give an interview, diving deep into the topic won’t help. Instead, providing an overview of the subject and subtopics can help introduce each point and not take up all the precious minutes. 

How to give an overview?

When giving an overview, there are some questions to tick that can help you know if you have covered the basics; such as:

• What does this topic mean in 1-2 sentences? 
• When can this information be useful to someone?
• What impacts does this topic have in 1-2 sentences?
• Where can you see its practical/theoretical application? 
• How is this going to benefit my audience?

These are some basic questions, and if you notice, cover the basic WH questions . Thus, following the WH Pattern is helpful when you want to give a brief overview.

2. Structuring The Presentation with Time Allocation 

Structuring your presentation is extremely important, irrespective of the style and pattern of presentation you opt for or the time you are allowed, since it provides a framework for your subsequent preparation. And when you have just 5 minutes, structuring it according to the time becomes more critical. 

Steps to Structure your Presentation

A general outline that progresses from the fundamentals to the particular should be used when preparing a presentation or speech. This will give those less familiar with the subject a quick overview of the topic before delving further. Here are some steps you may take if you’re wondering how to budget time and logically format your content –

• General introduction of the content (1 minute) 
• Aim/Objectives or the motives (1 minute) 
• Body wherein you discuss the main content such as pros and cons, how it helps etc. (2 minutes)
• Conclusion and feedback (1 minute) 

You can follow this general template; however, it is important to tailor it to your specific topic and style. To prevent running out of time, don’t forget to multiply your estimated time by the number of minutes.

If you’re seeking ideas on how to organize your speech, visit our blog 3 Ways To Structure A Speech The Professional Way where we help you plan out your next speech more professionally.

3. Avoid memorizing or monotonously speaking your content

Memorizing or reading from the content could seem like a good approach when you are short on time, but it is the opposite. Reading or learning the material is not advised because the audience may lose interest and zone out within the first 30 seconds. An improved strategy is understanding and presenting the material as a narrative or story. 

What can you do instead of memorizing? 

If you’re someone who needs chits or keywords to refer to, just speaking might be a difficult task for you. In such cases, you can complement your speech by –

• Showing a slideshow of visuals that compliment your speech.
• Make slips with keywords for each subtopic, so you know what to elaborate upon.
• Storytell – Share personal life anecdotes and relate your content to them.

When you speak in a narrative style rather than reading, you grab the audience’s attention more and are better able to connect with them, determine whether they can understand the topic from their non-verbal cues, and adjust your delivery accordingly. As a result, genuinely comprehending your topic is considerably more beneficial for you and the audience than simply reading it from a piece of writing.

4. Use actions more than words

It is much said that actions speak louder than words, which is one trick to stick to when you have much less time and comments to express. Actions here include non-verbal gestures, body language, and facial expressions that convey the intensity of the message that you want to deliver. 

What are the different types of actions that you can use

A} non-verbal gestures.

Non-verbal gestures refer to the complimentary use of your hand expressions and body language to support a verbal point. As they are frequently accurate predictors of what you are saying, these behaviours are accorded a great deal of weight. Thus, if you want to draw the audience’s attention to any particular or central point, it is helpful to use hand gestures to imply them effectively.

There are various gestures that imply certain meaning, such as –

• Pointing a finger to stress a particular word. 
• Circling your hands to show a sign of moving to the next topic. 

Here is a video that tells you 10 hand gestures, their meaning, and how to use them effectively!

B} Facial expressions

Facial expressions refer to using your facial appearance to amplify your spoken words. Compared to a neutral expression, having a smile, making eye contact, or even having a shocking expression to a point has a lot greater impact. The audience is least likely to pay attention to what you’re saying and lose interest if you maintain a static expression.

Imagine if you had to look at a face that had a neutral look for 5 minutes and one with a jolly expressionist face.

Who would you most like look forward to and be interested to listen?

Your answer right there tells you the importance of facial expression.

Actions speak louder than words; you must use them effectively in these 5 minutes!

5. Include Visuals 

Five minutes is too short a time to speak about every detail, and that’s when visuals and graphics take the stage. Much like the famous quote, a picture is worth 1000 words, correctly chosen illustrations can complement your verbal speech and enhance the intensity by large.

Guidelines to follow when adding visuals 

It’s not difficult to add images and videos, but it’s crucial to pick the one that best conveys your message while also standing out. Thus, the following are some things to keep in mind when adding a photo or any other visuals:

• Is this photo self-explanatory, or do I have to allocate time to explain it?
• Are the videos easy to comprehend and cover the basics of my topic? 
• Have I added at least one picture to each subtopic I will cover? 
• Lastly, does the picture in any way hurt any sentiments? 

Visual communication can engage and attract the readers because they have something to look at when you are speaking. Thus, when both the modes of delivery are combined, it leads to a much better understanding and retention of the audience. 

6. Share additional post-speech resources

As much as you try, you cannot cover all the information you would if you had a 20-minute presentation against a 5-minute one. But now that you do have this task, it is a good idea to share some helpful post-speech resources that can help the audience delve deep into the topic if they wish to. 

Ways in which you can share additional information 

A} Videos: Recommending videos is one of the quickest and most effective ways to give some extra information. When researching your content, if you come across any videos that are too long to use in your presentation but are a valuable source of knowledge, linking them in the last to share it with the audience is a helpful thing, which in some ways can also convey the message that you are invested in the topic and want the audience to know more about it.  

B} Brochure : Although this might seem like a bit of work or a step forward, this is another excellent takeaway you can give. Brochures filled with a summary and more information on the topic can be a helpful guide for the audience to return to if they wish to explore the matter further.

7. Rehearse 3x times more  

It goes without saying that you should practice your speech or presentation, but given the time limit, it is advisable to practice for longer. This is because multiple rounds of practice will give you the following benefits –

A} Let you see if you finish the content structured in 5 minutes – The first time you practice the speech, you might be unable to complete it in the allotted time. Still, subsequent practice sessions will allow you to determine whether you are running on time or not, without rushing and efficiently covering all the points. Thus, if you finish late, you will have a lot to work on, such as speeding up or reducing the content, and if you finish early, you have precisely the opposite.

B} Allows you to become thorough with the content – The more you practice, the more you will become adept at knowing your material inside and out. This is advantageous because you will be able to describe it in terms that are much simpler to understand, create a narrative around it, provide instances to support it, and reiterate it if necessary.

C} You can see if your speech is understandable – When we prepare a speech, we may at times believe that it is logical and runs smoothly. However, by regularly practicing, especially in front of friends and coworkers, you can determine whether the material and flow are coherent and simple to follow, giving you time to correct and alter if there are any gaps or missing pieces as per the feedback.

Structure of a 5-minute Presentation

Your presentation should also be organized similarly to how a speech is – with a beginning, middle, and an end.

When you have just a few minutes to present, it’s important to have a captivating and attention-drawing statement that can keep the audience hooked to the latter part of the presentation. In such cases, you can –

• open up with strong statements that might take the audience by awe – when you start a speech with some powerful and provocative statements on the topic, it can lure the audience into it because they might hold similar or different views and thus pay attention to support or argue their point.
• start with a reflective question that puts the audience into thinking – if your topic was an investment and its returns, questions like “what would you do if you had 1 cr when you were 70” or “do you dream of a trip after your retirement?” such personal and reflective questions make the audience think that the speaker is going to answer a way to make them true, which can, in turn, tune them into the talk.

Thus, having an impactful beginning is vital to get the audience to stick around and focus for the rest of the talk.

With regards to the speech’s body, due to time constraints, it is crucial to keep the substance brief. When you have just a few minutes to cover the content, it is important to – refer to and follow the WH Question Rule that can help you cover all the basics of a topic in a short period of time.

What should be kept in mind though should be that – you should not try to delve deep into any sub-topic and stick to the basics only. Here the WH Questions help as they checklist all the basic questions that need to be answered in a 5-minute presentation.

In about the last 60 seconds, you should conclude your speech. Whilst delivering this, you must very effectively use the quality of Repetition – that is reiterate the main or central theme that you wish to stick with the audience. It is helpful to say one impactful line rather than summarizing more than the need and not letting the main point stand out.

Samples and Examples of a 5-minute speech

Despite the fact that there are plenty of 5-minute speeches and presentations online, some of them are incredibly well-written and presented. Here are a few videos you can watch to get an idea of what a five-minute presentation should be like.

The danger of silence by Clint Smith

What If I Had Three Minutes To Change The World? by Asia Greene

5-Minute Presentation Topics

Presentation topics on science.

• Greatest Scientists and their discoveries
• Human Evolution and progress of Man
• Is there a parallel dimension?
• Physics in everyday life
• Emerging fields of Biology

Presentation topics on Technology

• Android vs. Apple
• Technology and its Evolution
• Trends in Technology
• Technology and its link to science, media, and other fields of education
• Careers in the field of Technology

Presentation topics on Finance

• What is Stock Market?
• Financial Freedom and how to achieve it?
• Investments in your life – from your 20’s to your 80’s
• Basics of demand and supply
• History and Future patterns of the economy

Presentation topics on Humanities and Arts

• Positive Psychology
• Gender Studies and its importance
• Branches of Social Science and its advent
• Careers in the field of Social Science
• Literature – why humans crave reading and writing

Presentation topics on Media

• History of Media and its Founders
• Employment in the field of Media
• Print Media vs Digital Media
• Use vs. Abuse of Media
• Is media the future?

Is Public Speaking Hard?

Speeches and Presentations are an integral part of our professional lives no matter what career we choose. Compelling presentations can be extremely helpful and effective provided all the necessary steps are taken beforehand.

Overall, public speaking can initially be a difficult task but it is not an impossible one; if all the stages and steps are followed, giving a speech can be a fairly simple undertaking.

If you are almost set to prepare your presentation but want to know more about the 5-minute presentation, ways to present, key tips, and much more, watch this video where we give you a visual guide to your next speech!

We hope that after this article, you’re all set to start your 5-minute presentation preparation!

If you are looking for a guide to your 30-minute or 10-minute presentation, then head onto our blog where we tell you everything you need to know from writing, topics, and delivery for your next speech!

Happy Presenting!

Enroll in our transformative 1:1 Coaching Program

Schedule a call with our expert communication coach to know if this program would be the right fit for you

8 Ways to Rise Above the Noise to Communicate Better

How to Negotiate: The Art of Getting What You Want

10 Hand Gestures That Will Make You More Confident and Efficient

• [email protected]
• +91 98203 57888

Get our latest tips and tricks in your inbox always

Copyright © 2023 Frantically Speaking All rights reserved

Kindly drop your contact details so that we can arrange call back

Select Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria AmericanSamoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Rwanda Samoa San Marino Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Tajikistan Thailand Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Wallis and Futuna Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe land Islands Antarctica Bolivia, Plurinational State of Brunei Darussalam Cocos (Keeling) Islands Congo, The Democratic Republic of the Cote d'Ivoire Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Guernsey Holy See (Vatican City State) Hong Kong Iran, Islamic Republic of Isle of Man Jersey Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Lao People's Democratic Republic Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Macao Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Mozambique Palestinian Territory, Occupied Pitcairn Réunion Russia Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan Da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Sao Tome and Principe Somalia Svalbard and Jan Mayen Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tanzania, United Republic of Timor-Leste Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S.

ChatableApps

Mastering the Perfect Word Count – A Guide for Crafting a 5 Minute Speech

Understanding word count for a 5-minute speech.

When delivering a speech, word count plays a crucial role in ensuring effective communication within a given time frame. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of word count for a 5-minute speech and provide practical tips to help you craft a compelling and concise presentation.

Importance of Word Count in a Speech

Before diving into the specifics of word count for a 5-minute speech, it is essential to understand why it matters. A speech that is too long may lose the audience’s attention and become tedious, while a speech that is too short may lack substance and fail to leave a lasting impact. Striking the right balance is key to delivering a powerful message within the allotted time.

The Goal of Delivering a 5-Minute Speech

Delivering a 5-minute speech requires careful planning and preparation. The goal is to convey your main points concisely and engage the audience within this limited time frame. By adhering to a specific word count, you can ensure a focused and impactful presentation that holds the audience’s attention.

Understanding the Average Word Count per Minute

Now that we recognize the significance of word count in a speech, let’s explore how to determine the appropriate number of words for a 5-minute presentation.

Typical Speaking Rate for an Average Individual

The average speaking rate is approximately 125-150 words per minute. However, keep in mind that different individuals have varying natural speaking speeds. It is crucial to consider your own pace to determine the most accurate word count for your speech.

Calculation: Words per Minute x 5

To calculate the word count for a 5-minute speech, multiply the average number of words spoken per minute (e.g., 150 words) by the duration in minutes (e.g., 5 minutes). The result will be the approximate word count to aim for in your speech, in this case, 750 words.

Preparing for a 5-Minute Speech

Now that we have established the ideal word count for a 5-minute speech, let’s delve into the steps you can take to prepare effectively.

Choosing a Topic that Can be Effectively Covered in 5 Minutes

When selecting a topic for your speech, ensure it is something you are passionate about and that aligns with the time constraints. Complex subjects may be challenging to cover within a brief timeframe, so opt for topics that can be effectively presented and discussed within 5 minutes.

Conducting Research and Gathering Relevant Information

Once you have chosen a topic, conduct thorough research to gather relevant information and supporting evidence. Select key points and examples that align with your main message and that can be adequately covered within the desired word count. Remember, brevity is essential.

Crafting an Engaging Introduction

The introduction sets the tone for your entire speech and plays a vital role in capturing the audience’s attention from the beginning. Let’s explore some strategies to make your introduction compelling and engaging.

Grabbing the Audience’s Attention

Start your speech with a hook that grabs the audience’s attention and piques their curiosity. This could be a thought-provoking question, an impactful quote, or an intriguing fact relevant to your topic. By capturing their interest, you will increase the likelihood of your audience staying engaged throughout the presentation.

Sharing a Compelling Anecdote or Statistic

Anecdotes and statistics are powerful tools to create an emotional connection with your audience and make your introduction memorable. Choose relevant and impactful stories or statistics that relate to your main message and emphasize the importance of your topic.

Structuring the Body for a 5-Minute Speech

After a captivating introduction, it’s time to dive into the main body of your speech. Structuring your ideas in a logical and organized manner is crucial to ensure your message is effectively communicated within the time limit.

Outlining Key Points and Organizing Them Logically

Start by outlining the key points you want to cover in your speech and arranging them in a logical order. Each point should be concise and support your main message. Use headings or numbers to clearly indicate each section, making it easier for the audience to follow along.

Supporting Each Point with Evidence or Examples

To enhance the credibility and impact of your speech, support each key point with relevant evidence or examples. This could include statistics, research findings, personal experiences, or anecdotes. Be mindful of your word count and choose the most compelling pieces of evidence that directly support your main message.

Maintaining an Appropriate Pace

Practicing your speech is essential to ensure a smooth and confident delivery. However, it is equally important to pay attention to your pace and engage the audience effectively throughout your presentation.

Practicing the Speech to Ensure Smooth Delivery

Set aside time to rehearse your speech multiple times. As you practice, pay attention to your pace, enunciation, and overall delivery. Timing each practice run will help you refine your speaking speed and ensure that your speech falls within the 5-minute timeframe.

Using Pauses and Variations in Tone to Engage the Audience

While speaking, incorporate strategic pauses to emphasize key points and allow the audience to absorb your message. Additionally, add variations in your tone and inflection to keep the audience engaged. A monotonous delivery can cause the audience to lose interest, so aim to keep your speech lively and captivating.

Effective Use of Transitions

To create a cohesive and well-structured speech, the effective use of transitions is crucial.

Connecting Ideas Cohesively

Transitions serve as bridges between different sections of your speech, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas. Use transitional phrases such as “Now let’s move on to,” “In addition to that,” or “Furthermore” to connect your points in a cohesive manner.

Utilizing Transitional Words and Phrases

In addition to transitional phrases, incorporate transitional words within your sentences to establish connections between ideas. Words like “however,” “therefore,” and “moreover” help create a seamless transition and enhance the overall coherence of your speech.

Sharing a Memorable Conclusion

The conclusion of your speech should leave a lasting impact on the audience and reinforce your main message.

Summarizing Key Points

Recapitulate the main points discussed throughout your speech to reinforce your message and ensure that the audience retains the key information. Briefly revisit each key point while being mindful of your word count.

Leaving the Audience with a Memorable Final Thought

End your speech on a powerful note by leaving the audience with a stimulating final thought, a call to action, or a challenge. This will ensure that your words resonate with them even after your speech concludes, leaving a lasting impression.

Editing and Polishing the Speech

Once you have drafted your speech, it’s essential to review and edit it for clarity, conciseness, and adherence to the desired word count.

Removing Unnecessary Words and Phrases

Carefully review your speech and eliminate any unnecessary words or phrases that do not contribute to your main message. Trim down sentences where possible to keep your speech concise and impactful.

Ensuring the Speech Fits within the Desired Word Count

After editing, calculate the final word count of your speech to ensure it falls within the desired range. If needed, further refine your content to meet the word count limit, being mindful not to compromise the quality of your message.

Rehearsing for a Confident Delivery

To deliver a successful 5-minute speech, rehearsing is essential to build confidence and ensure a polished delivery.

Memorizing the Speech

Aim to memorize your speech to reduce reliance on notes or cue cards. This will allow you to maintain better eye contact with the audience, engage with them, and deliver your points confidently.

Practicing in Front of a Mirror or with a Support Group

Rehearse your speech in front of a mirror to observe your body language and facial expressions. Consider seeking feedback from a supportive friend or colleague who can provide constructive criticism and help you further refine your delivery.

Handling Nervousness and Public Speaking Anxiety

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking for many individuals. Here are some techniques to help you manage nervousness and anxiety:

Breathing Exercises and Relaxation Techniques

Prior to your speech, engage in deep breathing exercises or relaxation techniques to calm your nerves. Deep breaths can help reduce anxiety and allow you to focus your energy on delivering your speech confidently.

Focusing on the Message Rather Than Personal Insecurities

Shift your focus from self-doubt and personal insecurities to the importance of your message and the value it brings to the audience. Remind yourself that you have prepared diligently and that you have valuable insights to share.

In conclusion, word count plays a vital role in ensuring an effective 5-minute speech. By understanding the average word count per minute, meticulously preparing, structuring your presentation, and practicing for a confident delivery, you can deliver a memorable speech that captivates your audience. Embrace the challenge, apply these tips, and inspire others with your powerful words.

Related articles:

• How Many Words is 10 Minutes? A Comprehensive Guide to Ideal Word Count for Different Speech Lengths
• How Many Words is 2 Minutes? Explained and Simplified
• Mastering the Art of a Five Minute Speech – Optimal Word Count and Tips for Success
• Unlocking the Word Count Mystery – How Many Words is Ideal for a 3-Minute Presentation?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Speaking time calculator

Type or paste your speech to instantly calculate your speaking time

How does this speech timer work

To begin, delete the sample text and either type in your speech or copy and paste it into the editor.

The average reading speed and speech rate is 200 words per minute and is the default setting above. Once you paste your speech, click “Play” and Speechify will analyze your speech by the number of words and generate a time to speak it at the default rate.

You can listen to your speech in various accents or languages. If you are aiming for a specific timeframe for your speech, click edit to either increase or decrease the number of words to see how long it would take to speak them.

You can also increase or decrease the speaking rate to gauge how fast or slow you should speak in order to get to a specific time with the number of words you have in your speech.

To get to that perfect word count to fit with the speech length time, you’ll have to keep editing between words per minute (WPM) and number of words.

The best part is that you can share your speech in audio format to your friends, relatives, or peers to review it. They can simply click play and listen to your speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many words are there in a 1 minute speech.

Based on the average speed of speech, there are 150 words in a 1 minute speech.

How many words are there in a 2 minute speech?

There are 300 words per minute in a 2 minute speech. 2 minutes isn’t a long time so when you speak, you could endure the average speaking rate.

How many words are there in a 3 minute speech?

On average there are 450 words in a 3 minute speech. This is based on the average speech rate of 250 words per minute. At the 3 minute mark, even a novice speaker could keep going at the rate they started – with some practice.

How many words are there in a 4 minute speech?

On average there are 600 words in a 4 minute speech. This is based on the average speech rate of 250 words per minute. Still, even a novice speaker could maintain the 150 words per minute rate. Try it in the Soundbite above. Set your words per minute and speak along to see if you could endure consistency over 4 minutes.

How many words are there in a 5 minute speech?

On average there are 750 words in a 5 minute speech. This is based on the average speech rate of 250 words per minute. While this is simple math, we after all are humans and 5 minutes can be pushing the boundaries of a consistent speech tempo and words per minute.

How many words are there in a 10 minute speech?

In a 10 minute speech aim for 1000 words. The math might tell you 1,500 words but consider your speech. You might need pauses, rest for your voice, dramatic effects, and perhaps even audience interaction. Also, it becomes quite difficult to endure a consistent 150 words per minute speech rate for 10 minutes. Consider your listeners. We doubt very few people would want to listen to a precisely 150 words per minute speech for 10 minutes. It wouldn’t be engaging. And in a speech, you should engage and communicate.

Speechify is the #1 text-to-speech reader

Install anywhere and sync your data everywhere

Speechify Chrome extension

Listen to any text on your laptop or desktop. Read aloud with the Speechify text-to-speech extension for Chrome. ​ 

Speechify for iOS​

Get the #1 rated app for text-to-speech in the App Store. Speechify can read books, documents, and articles while you cook, work out, commute, or any other activity you can think of. 

Speechify Android app

Speechify is a text to speech (tts) screen reader that can read any text, PDF, document, book, email, file, or article online out loud on your phone. 

Only available on iPhone and iPad

To access our catalog of 100,000+ audiobooks, you need to use an iOS device.

Coming to Android soon...

Join the waitlist

Enter your email and we will notify you as soon as Speechify Audiobooks is available for you.

You’ve been added to the waitlist. We will notify you as soon as Speechify Audiobooks is available for you.

How Many Words is a 5-Minute Speech

I like building and growing simple yet powerful products for the world and the worldwide web.

Published Date : February 16, 2024

Reading Time :

Giving a speech is not as easy as you may think. After all, being in front of many people will surely give you pressure.  You can feel all sweaty and nervous. Fortunately, giving a speech is usually planned, so you can still prepare before it happens. 

That’s why if you present something or give a speech , you should first know how many words per minute of a speech .

It is crucial, especially if you are asked to do a speech in a limited time, for instance, a 5-minute speech . Will you be able to finish the task perfectly? 

You might ask yourself how to compose a speech with that time limit, or more importantly, how many words is a 5-minute speech ? 

Here is some information to guide you to ensure you can do your job flawlessly while looking and sounding smart. Please read on.

How many words per minute of speech?

Aren’t you curious how many words a person can say in a minute? How about in a speech ? Have you ever thought about why it’s essential to know how many words per minute of speech speakers can use?

How about longer speeches? How many words is a 3-minute, 5-minute, or 10-minute speech ? These are questions that might confuse speakers, especially those who are new to public speaking .

Theoretically, a person can talk up to 100 to 150 words in a regular conversation, but this still depends on how people deliver their words. After all, some people talk fast while others are slower than average.

Those who talk fast can put more words in their speech , while the average or slower should follow the standard or minimum prescribed words. 

A table shows how many words per minute of speech an average speaker can do.

How do you estimate your spoken words?

Now that you know the average number of words a person can say, you surely want to estimate how many words you can say. The number of words you speak depends on your pacing or how fast or slow you talk. 

• Timing yourself while giving a speech is the easiest way to estimate it. Use a timer to count how many words per minute of speech you can do. 
• There is also an app that can count how many words you speak in a speech . These apps can even determine the speech ’s pacing, diction, or filler words. Use these applications to make estimating the number of words you will use in your speech easier.
• You can also use your phone to record your voice and then manually count each word you say.
• A video can also do the trick. You can take a video of yourself while doing a speech to count how many words you said. You can even see your appearance with the video when giving a speech .

Choose any of the above ways so you know how many words you can say. Once you have the estimated count, you can reference how many words per minute of speech you can do.  

However, this number can change depending on your situation. 

For example, an impromptu speech can make you nervous, affecting your pacing. With the change of pace,  you can talk faster or slower than usual. 

Changing the pacing is sometimes useful to show dynamics in your speech . However, ensure that your pacing will not distract your listeners, and they won’t feel your nervousness.

How many words are in a 3-minute speech?

As mentioned earlier, the average number of words a person can say in a minute of speech is around 100 to 150, but this can change depending on the speaker’s pace and situation. That is why if you want to know how many words are in a 3-minute speech , the short answer is about 300 to 450 words.

However, would that be enough for you to say everything you want to say in your speech ? Although you can say many things within 3 minutes, it might not be enough to fully explain your subject to your listeners.

Here are some tips that can help you finish your 3-minute speech with ease with that kind of problem.

• First, you need to focus on your subject. Since you’re constrained with time, you must limit your speech by directly attacking the topic. Do not be vague on your points to convey your ideas within the time limit.
• After that, choose one main key point on your subject. It should be something you are very familiar with or good at. It is vital to leave a striking impression on your listener. Ensure you sound smart when discussing the subject; you can only do that if you master the topic. 
• Revolve your speech on that particular point so you can quickly and confidently speak about it with your audience.

With this, you will not have difficulty adjusting the words you need to say in your speech . You can also convey your thoughts better and attract your audience’s attention. By knowing how you can emphasize your subject, you won’t have a problem estimating how many words per minute of speech you need to use. You can also learn more about public speaking by visiting this site .

How many words do I need for a five-minute speech?

If you have given a time limit for a speech , then it means that you need to adhere to it. You may ask yourself how many words are in a 5-minute speech .

Based on the table above, it should be around 500 to 750 words. With this amount of words and time, you can convey many things to your audience. 

However, it doesn’t mean you can bombard your audience with much information. You can’t be like a robot in front of them and spew out information.

If this is your first time giving a speech , let this guide help you. Here are some do’s and don’ts when giving a speed to an audience.

How many words do I need for a ten-minute speech?

Image source

In a 10-minute speech , you can say about 1000 to 1500 words. But this number can change depending on how many words per minute of speech you can do.

Some people tend to talk fast, while others speak slower than average. However, there are also times when a person’s pacing or speaking rate changes because of their situation. Just like estimating how many words a 5-minute speech is, you can take a video of yourself to evaluate your pacing when giving the speech . 

It’s also good to plan your 5-minute speech since you have ample time to expound on your topic. Planning your speech will also help you sound coherent, especially when explaining a difficult subject.  You must also make your discussion relevant so your listeners will not get bored.

Several factors can affect a person’s speaking rate or pacing.

• Regular pacing/speaking rate 

Your standard speaking rate is influenced by the environment you have. These factors include where you grew up, the culture, how your parents or family speaks, and mannerisms.

• Nervousness

When people feel tense or jittery, they tend to talk faster than their regular speaking rate, affecting how many words per minute of speech they can do.

• Urgent or emergency matter

When you need to say something hurriedly, you tend to speak fast to convey your thoughts swiftly to the listener. You can change your pacing when you show dynamics in speech , but make sure your listener can still understand what you’re saying.

Tiredness is also a factor that can affect people’s speaking rates. When you are tired, your mind will function slower, which makes you speak slowly.

• Pauses/fillers

Your pauses and fillers can occupy your speaking time, so find ways to avoid it . Some listeners are also very sensitive when hearing a lot of fillers. Hence, too many fillers and pauses can disrupt your flow of discussion and bring discomfort to your listeners. 

• Use of complex words

If the subject is a bit complicated, you might need to speak slowly and consider how many words per minute of speech so your audience can slowly digest everything you say 

How to prepare a 5-minute speech for public speaking?

Now that you know how many words per minute of speech you can do and how many words is a 5-minute speech , you can easily prepare a speech .

Here are some ideas on how to prepare yourself for your speech .

• Quality over quantity – Ensure you prioritize your speech ’s quality instead of the number of words in your speech . Make sure that you convey all important and necessary information to your listeners.
• Crack a joke – Don’t be afraid to say jokes , but ensure they relate to your topic. After all, you don’t want to make your audience feel awkward, but you don’t make it boring.
• Do your research – Ensure you are prepared and ready before your speech . Do your research and study well to provide credible information to your listeners.
• Keep it simple – You will avoid getting sidetracked on your topic by keeping the speech simple . It will also prevent you from rambling, unnecessary things to make your speech better. You can expound on the subject but always remember to know how many words are in a minute of speech .
• Tell a related story – People will understand you better if you tell them relatable things. You don’t need to say everything about yourself, but enough for them to get hooked and hear you out until the end. 
• Practice, practice, practice! Even if you know how many words a 5-minute speech is, your performance might still not be successful if you don’t practice. By practicing your address, you can fluently convey all facts and information to your listeners. It will also prevent you from making mistakes and improve the whole thing.

This video can also help you practice your public speaking :

What are some tips for writing a 3-minute speech?

Giving a speech within 3 minutes may seem very fast, but you can convey many things within that time as long as you plan. First, you must know how many words is a 3-minute speech before writing anything.

Depending on how many words per minute of speech you have to convey your topic even with a limited time.

Here are some tips on putting an informative and useful speech within 3-minutes to help you.

• Research 

Before knowing how many words a 3-minute speech is, researching your topic to create a good speech is imperative.

• Create an Outline 

Break down what you need to say in your speech . Create a structure and a step-by-step procedure you need to follow when giving the speech .

• Write an opening statement. 

The opening statement is crucial when you are giving a speech . It lets you get your audience’s attention and engage them to listen.

• List down the main points. 

Don’t also forget to list down 1 to 3 main points. This central point has all the essential facts and information you must convey to the audience. As long as you know your main points, it’s easy to assess how many words per minute of speech you will do.

• Don’t forget to memorize 

Remember to practice and memorize the speech that you have written. This way, you can confidently stand before your audience and finish your speech .

Methods on How You Can Improve When Giving Speech

Are you going to give a 5-minute speech at the next event you’re going to? Are you nervous, and do you know how many words is a 5-minute speech ?

If not yet, then let this help you out. A 5-minute speech has 500 to 750 words; if you are still not ready to give a speech , here are some methods to help you.

• Make sure that you practice before you give a speech . You can ask someone to help you or video yourself to know what you need to change to deliver a better speech .
• Listen to how other speakers do their speech . You will surely get some ideas on how to make your speech better.
• Experiment on your own and try different pacing to get the right speaking rate you want to have when you give your speech .
• Read books or news and familiarize yourself with the information. See how it flows and try to say it aloud. Repeat it several times, and try changing your pacing on each repetition. 
• You can also visit sites that can help you develop your speaking skills.

How can you tailor your speech to resonate with your specific audience?

Captivate your audience by tailoring your speech ! Understand their age, interests, and knowledge. Research their values and speak their language. Use relatable examples and address their specific needs. Visuals and clear structure keep them engaged, while feedback helps you refine them for future success. Speak effectively and resonate deeply.

Why is it important to know your audience when crafting a presentation?

Knowing your audience unlocks presentation magic! Customize content, language, and examples to fit their age, interests, and knowledge. Adapt your tone, address potential questions, and maximize impact. Craft a message that resonates and leaves a lasting impression. Remember, presentations thrive on audience understanding!

How can you engage your audience throughout your speech?

Captivate your audience! Hook them with a surprising fact, story, or question. Share relatable stories and examples. Use visuals and encourage participation. Speak naturally and clearly, and keep it concise. Engaging audiences is your presentation superpower!

How does the type of speech you’re giving affect its length?

The ideal speech length depends on its type and purpose. Persuasive speeches, rich in evidence, may need a quicker pace to fit everything in. A few hundred words and a slower delivery suffice for introductions or thank-yous. Informative speeches with technical details might be longer. Tailor your speech ’s duration and pace to its goals for maximum impact.

How can you ensure you don’t ramble or rush through your points in a 5-minute speech?

This blog delves into public speaking , offering diverse resources – from presentation software options to inspiring speech analysis. Explore their content spanning different aspects like delivery tips, unique elevator pitches, and even tool recommendations. They emphasize confident, engaging delivery and welcome you to their community on social media to learn and connect!

How should you practice your delivery for an effective speech?

To nail your speech delivery, practice is key! Focus on clarity and comfortable pacing, allowing your audience to follow easily. Speak with inflection and use natural body language for emphasis. Consider tools like Speeko for feedback, and remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t rush or ramble, and your 5-minute speech will resonate!

What should you focus on in your speech’s core message?

A 10-minute speech is 1000-1500 words, but don’t get hung up on length. Prioritize a concise, focused core message. Build a clear outline with key ideas that support it. Remember, quality over quantity! Ditch unnecessary tangents and practice for confident delivery. Your audience will appreciate a focused, impactful speech that resonates.

How can you maximize your 5 minutes for a powerful speech?

Master your 5-minute speech ! Prepare and rehearse beforehand, then focus on engaging your audience. Balance info with conciseness , use an outline for focus and find the sweet spot between energy and composure. Speak, project your voice, and stick to the word count. Most importantly, practice! Speak to mirrors, friends, or anyone receptive – the more you do, the better you’ll be! Be prepared, engage your audience, and confidently deliver your powerful message.

What should you consider when writing a powerful 5-minute speech?

Craft a strong 5-minute speech by staying focused! Pick a clear, concise topic, choose a key point you shine in, and tailor your words to revolve around it. This ensures smooth flow and audience connection and helps estimate your pace. Remember practice and engagement; your impactful message will resonate within the time limit.

Knowing how many words per minute of speech you can say is essential, especially when making a speech . It will give you an estimate of how many words you can say with a speech that has a time limit. 

Knowing how many words are in a 5-minute speech will give you a limit on how many words you can convey. You can also quickly outline what you must say since there is a time limit. 

With these tips and information, you can easily do your speech without any problem. Remember everything you read here; it will help you ace the public speaking task. Download the Orai app at the App Store today to start your free trial with your AI speech coach ! 

You might also like

Good Attention Getters for Speeches with 10+ Examples!

How to End a Speech: The Best Tips and Examples

Quick links.

• Presentation Topics

Useful Links

• Start free trial
• The art of public speaking
• improve public speaking
• mastering public speaking
• public speaking coach
• professional speaking
• public speaking classes - Courses
• public speaking anxiety
• © Orai 2023

How Many Words In A 5 Minute Speech? [A Word Count Guide]

/ By Alan Reiner

/ September 21, 2022

5 minute speeches are quite common. You may give them in your workplace, in an educational setting or even for things like weddings or funerals. 

Whatever the case, you will likely be asking yourself how many words you would need to write when you’re preparing what you’re going to say. 

In short, a 5 minute speech will require 750 words, based on the average talking length.

However, there’s a lot more information we must cover when exploring this topic.

In this guide, we’ve looked at the word length for 5 minute speeches, why it might be the case, and how you should prepare for the speech itself. 

So, if you’re looking for guidance on an upcoming speech, read on to learn more. 

What Is The Word Count For A 5 Minute Speech?

This is an area that has been explored multiple times over the years.

Academics and public speaking coaches have long researched this to try to help prospective students improve their speeches and presentation skills. 

According to publication coaches, the average person will speak between 125 to 150 words each minute. Resultedly, you would cover between 625 to 750 words per minute if you were to write a speech. 

In layman’s terms, your average blog post is about 750 words, so you can expect to be able to publicly read out a blog post in 5 minutes. 

Of course, this is only an estimate based on the average. Many people will speak much more quickly than others, and some speak much more slowly. 

The fact is, the only way you can categorically and conclusively work out how many words you can cover in 5 minutes is by practice and testing yourself. 

It’s also important to note that many speeches will not be read out word for word and you may end up going on a tangent, or even answering questions depending on what type of speech you are conducting.

Therefore, even if you can cover 750 words in 5 minutes word for word, you should also account for missing words or adding words to your speech. 

How To Deliver The Perfect 5 Minute Speech By Word Count

When it comes to the delivery of a 5 minute speech with a word count , there are various things you need to bear in mind. 

Let’s work under the assumption that you can cover 750 words in a five minute speech. You will need to prepare the speech in sections which provide your most salient points. 

Let’s look at this in more detail. 

Introduction

As always, your introduction should be the shortest part of your speech and should remain as concise as possible.

If we’re working under the 750 word assumption, your introduction should be between 50 and 100 words maximum.

This will mean that your introduction will take between 30 seconds and 1 minute long when it comes to the timing. 

Much like when you’re planning to write a type of essay or even for some fictional works, you will have a clear formatting. Introduction, main body and conclusion (or closing remarks). 

The main body is where the majority of your points will be made.

It is irrelevant what you are delivering the speech on, this is where you will provide the most important pieces of information or major talking points. 

As a result, the word count will be at its highest in this section. You should aim to write about 600 to 650 words in this section. 

Remember, this is the part of your speech that means the most. You should try to remain concise, but also provide the most important information. Do not waffle when it comes to this section. 

If you find during practice that your speech is not long enough, always try to put more relevant information into this section. Don’t be tempted to extend or prolong your introduction to account for more minutes. 

The same applies to the conclusion – you do not want to overdo those parts of a speech, as the overall meaning will be lost in the main body. 

Conclusion (Or Closing Remarks)

This area of your speech is where you will be summarizing your major points and simply reiterating or reminding your audience why you have made your speech, so they remember what the point was. 

A good conclusion or closing remarks in a speech will not repeat the same points, but rather act as a way to reinforce the points that were already made. 

A conclusion in terms of word count will cover about 50 to 100 words but should not exceed this really.

If you do too many words, you are in danger of repeating points that you have previously made and it will dilute the overall quality of the speech. 

Here’s an example from this guide:

“In conclusion, a speech will be about 750 words, split 50, 650, 50 for each section”. 

Tips For Delivering A Great Speech

Of course, it’s all well and good having your speech planned in terms of its word count, but you will need to know how to prepare and deliver this speech in the best possible way. 

Here are some of the best tips you can try to remember. 

Record And Time Yourself

As we mentioned earlier, 750 words is merely going to be a guideline. You will need to practice and will likely be rewriting your speech over and over again. 

We recommend writing a 750 word speech and then timing yourself as you deliver it on your own, before you do it for real. 

If you find that you are finishing your speech with plenty of time remaining, you will need to put more words into the main body of your speech. 

It’s important though that you remain concise and avoid putting points into your speech that are irrelevant or fruitless. 

Conversely, if your timer goes off and you have lots more to say, you will need to trim your speech down. 

It is often difficult to know what to remove, but we recommend trying to slim your introduction or closing remarks first before looking at what to edit in the main body. 

Take Your Time And Relax

It’s common for people to try to rush their speeches because they want to get it done with. This however usually gives off a bad experience for the audience and dilutes your quality. 

Take as much time as possible and try to relax. This will improve your delivery and should prevent you from running under your time limit. 

It’s important that you don’t pause for too long though, as you may run out of time! The best advice to give here is try to practice your speech as many times as possible before you give it properly. 

The Bottom Line

A 5 minute speech is about 750 words based on the average speaking speed. However, the only sure fire way to know how many words you should write is by practicing your speech and timing yourself.

Alan Reiner

Hi, my name is Alan Reiner and I have been in the writing industry for almost seven years. I write articles that can span from 200 words all the way to 20,000 words every single day. How do I do it? With a lot of determination. All my way through school and college, I hated long-form assignments. I could never get into the groove of working on one piece for an extended period of time. My pieces were always late because I didn’t have the motivation to type them, let alone edit them.

How Many Pages Is 3000 Words?

How many pages are in a comic book, how to become a grant writer, how many words in a sentence [a word count guide], how to become a freelance writer, how long is 400 words, 14 of the longest words in english, what is an adverb definition, usage & examples.

Words To Time Converter

Estimate how many minutes your speeches, presentations, and voice-over scripts will take based on your words per minute rate!

Words per Minute: 183

How To Convert Words to Minutes Using This Tool?

If you have a certain number of words or a piece of text you want to time, you can either type in the word count or paste the text into the provided area. This tool will then calculate how long it would take to read that text out loud.

The talk time estimate is calculated using the average speaking speed of adults, which is determined to be 183 words per minute based on scientific studies. If you’re interested in how long it would take to read silently, it’s estimated at 238 words per minute ( This data is also backed by research )

You can adjust the slider to change the words per minute value, which will affect the talk time estimate. However, the silent reading time estimate remains fixed at 238 words per minute. 

For ease of use, we’ve also provided reference points for slow, average, and fast reading rates below the slider.

To begin anew, simply click the ‘clear text’ button to erase the content and restore the slider back to its original setting of 183.

I. Who is This Words to Minutes Converter Tool For?

If you are a student wondering how long is my essay or you’ve been tasked with writing a speech and need to know how many words to aim for and how many minutes will it take to deliver or perhaps you are a podcaster, just starting out, who wants the ability to easily synchronize music and spoken word without having to painstakingly calculate seconds between them, then this words to time converter (or speech time calculator-you may call it if you are a public speaker) is precisely for you! 

From now on, instead of spending long hours in front of the computer trying to figure out how many seconds it takes for one phrase or section of dialogue to end and another to begin, you can let our innovative tool do all the work and convert your text to time quickly and accurately. With this powerful tool at your disposal, whether you’re giving a TED talk or just need to nail a business presentation, your life will become a little bit easier.

So keep reading to learn more about what this fantastic words to minutes converter has in store for public speakers, aspiring students, and professional radio producers alike!

Whether you want to read the text silently or speak aloud, you can use this tool as both:

• Reading time calculator
• Talk time calculator

II.I Explanation of the Reading Time

Reading time refers to the duration it takes for an average person to read a written text silently while still comprehending its content. Based on an extensive analysis of 190 studies that involved 18,573 participants , research conducted by Marc Brysbaert in 2019 suggests that the typical silent reading speed for an adult individual is approximately 238 words per minute .

To convert word count to read time for a specific text, you can do so by dividing the total word count of the text by this established value of 238. Here is the mathematical equation for determining the duration of reading time in minutes:

Reading Time = Total Word Count / 238

II.II Explanation of the Speech Time

Speech time refers to the duration it takes for an average person to read a text out loud. Based on data from 77 studies involving 5,965 people , it’s been found that most adults read aloud at a speed of approximately 183 words per minute ( research conducted by Marc Brysbaert in 2019 ). To figure out how long it will take to read a specific piece of text aloud, you can divide the total number of words in the text by this average rate of 183 words per minute.

Of course, it’s important to note that talk time can vary depending on factors such as clarity of speech, pauses for emphasis, and use of visual aids. However, using this tool for converting the number of words to minutes can still provide a helpful guideline for planning and practicing your presentation. By having a better understanding of speech rates, you can ensure that your message is delivered effectively and efficiently.

III. Benefits of Using a Words to Time Converter

Time management in presentations.

Effective time management during presentations is crucial to ensure the audience remains engaged and the information is accurately conveyed. This is where our speaking time converter comes in handy. By using this tool, presenters can easily determine how many words they need to include in their presentation to stay within the allotted time frame.

Not only does it help with time management, but it also ensures that the pacing of the presentation is consistent, making it easier for the audience to follow. With the use of this tool, presenters can confidently deliver their presentations without the worry of running over time or rushing through it.

Estimated speech time for public speaking

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, especially when you have too little or too much information to fill your time slot. You wonder only if there were an accurate public speaking time calculator available so that you could be able to allocate the appropriate amount of time to each section of your presentation, ensuring that you cover all the necessary points without rushing or going over time. 

Effective pacing is key in ensuring your message is delivered with clarity and impact.

Most public speakers target an average of 130-150 words per minute for their spoken content, meaning you should aim to limit your speaking time to roughly one minute per 130-150 words. While this may take some practice to achieve, the end result is a confident, well-timed delivery that keeps your audience engaged from start to finish.

Remember, in public speaking, less is often more—take your time to breathe and emphasize key points. Your audience will appreciate your thoughtful and measured approach. For that, you can use this tool and adjust your words to speech time.

Accurate estimations for audiobooks and podcasts

As more and more people turn to audiobooks and podcasts for their entertainment and information needs, accurate estimations of listening time have become more important than ever. After all, there’s nothing worse than settling in for a quick listen only to find yourself trapped in a story that goes on for hours longer than you anticipated.

That’s why it’s great to see publishers and podcast producers taking estimated reading time seriously, providing listeners with the information they need to choose the right content for their schedule. Whether you’re looking for a quick listen on your daily commute or a lengthy distraction for a lazy Sunday afternoon, accurate estimations using this speaking time calculator make it easier than ever to find the perfect content.

IV. Some Popular Speech Times

V. conclusion.

As the world becomes more fast-paced, time is a precious commodity. Determining how long your script will take to read, whether for a presentation or a video, can make a significant difference in engaging and retaining your audience’s attention.

That’s where our Words to Time Converter comes in handy. It’s a valuable tool for anyone working in various professions, from broadcast journalists to teachers to executives. No matter the industry, time is of the essence, and knowing how long your speech or presentation will take is crucial for effective communication.

Speech calculator:  how long does it take to deliver your speech?

With this speech calculator, you can easily calculate how long it will take you to deliver a speech.

How many words per minute?

In the English language, people speak about 140 words per minute. A fast speaker will get to 170 words per minute, a slow speaker will use around 110 words.

Professional speechwriters use this speech calculator to find out how long a speech takes.

Copy your full text and paste it in the box below:

The entire analysis happens within your browser. The text will NOT be stored and NOT be sent over the web.

Word count:

Your speech rate:

Speech duration:

FAQ’s

How many words is a 3 minute speech  .

A speaker with an average speaking speed will need 420 words for a 3 minute speech. A fast speaker will need 510 words while a slow speaker will only need 330 words.

How many words is a 5 minute speech?  

A speaker with an average speaking speed will need 700 words for a 5 minutes speech. A fast speaker will need 850 words for the same speech length. A slow speaker will only need 550 words.

Is this a word count calculator?  

The speech calculator is a word count calculator. Insert your text and the tool will automatically calculate the word count.  It will then also calculate the speech length depending on the selected talking speed.

How to best select the right speaking speed?

Fast, average or slow? The answer depends on the speaker, the speech type and the speech setting.

The speaking speed of the speaker

Some speakers are natural fast or slow speakers. The best speakers keep a variance during their speeches. They speed up to keep momentum and slow down to put special emphasis on other parts.

The speech type

The type of speech matters a lot in selecting the right speech speed. If you read the whole speech word for word from paper then your average speech speed will be lower. If you intend to use the written speech as speaker notes then your average speaking speed will be much higher.

The speech setting

An informal setting will have a faster average speaking speed compared to a more formal setting.

Keeping all three factors in mind you will able make a better judgement about selecting the right speech speed in the speech calculator.

• January 2024
• August 2023
• January 2021
• December 2020
• October 2020
• September 2020
• Client case
• Persuasion tip

Debatrix is a leading expert in (remote) persuasive communication. Based in Europe, we offer executive coaching, persuasion consulting and trainings on TED-worthy presenting, how to influence and inspire, storytelling, debating, framing and dealing with difficult questions.

We value your privacy

Privacy overview.

Do you wonder how long it takes to deliver your speech?

This website helps you convert the number of words into the time it takes to deliver your speech, online and for free. This tool is useful when preparing a speech or a presentation. The number of minutes you will take is dependent on the number of words and your speed of speech, or reading speed.

Note: This calculator provides an indication only.

Enter details below

The overview below provides an indication of the minutes for a speech (based on an average reading speed of 130 words per minute):

• Words in a 1 minute speech 130 words
• Words in a 2 minute speech 260 words
• Words in a 3 minute speech 390 words
• Words in a 4 minute speech 520 words
• Words in a 5 minute speech 650 words
• Words in a 10 minute speech 1300 words
• Words in a 15 minute speech 1950 words
• Words in a 20 minute speech 2600 words
• How long does a 500 word speech take? 3.8 minutes
• How long does a 1000 word speech take? 7.7 minutes
• How long does a 1250 word speech take? 9.6 minutes
• How long does a 1500 word speech take? 11.5 minutes
• How long does a 1750 word speech take? 13.5 minutes
• How long does a 2000 word speech take? 15.4 minutes
• How long does a 2500 word speech take? 19.2 minutes
• How long does a 5000 word speech take? 38.5 minutes

Mastering 5-Minute Presentations: Slides for Maximum Impact

How many slides for a 5-minute presentation? It’s the million-dollar question in the context of giving a concise and impactful speech.

Let’s put it this way: you only have 300 seconds to not only convey your message but also to captivate your audience. It’s a tightrope walk between informative and overwhelming, and the number of slides you choose can make or break your presentation.

In this article, we’re not just counting slides; we’re unlocking the secrets to making every second and every slide in your 5-minute talk count.

Whether you’re pitching an idea to your team, presenting a project to clients, or speaking at a conference, the insights here will transform your approach to quick presentations. Let’s dive right in!

Understanding the 5-Minute Presentation

A 5-minute presentation is a tight, focused discourse where every word counts. It’s not just a brief talk; it’s a concentrated blend of your key points , delivered with precision and clarity .

This is where the question of how many slides for a 5-minute talk becomes crucial. The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all ; it hinges on your content’s complexity and your delivery style. Typically, a range of 5 to 10 slides is recommended, ensuring each slide gets enough time to be absorbed without rushing through.

The unique challenges of a 5-minute presentation lie in its brevity , along with other aspects like the best PowerPoint presentation design template to use. After all, you have a limited window to make an impression, which means every second and slide must be purposeful. 

Here are a few slides from a pitch deck by Copper Cow Coffee, which shows brevity and simplicity:

Remember, a well-executed 5-minute presentation can be more impactful than a 30-minute monologue.

Determining the Ideal Number of Slides

When addressing the pivotal query, “how many slides for a 5-minute presentation,” it’s essential to understand that the ideal number is influenced by several key factors:

Content Complexity

For complex topics with intricate data or concepts, fewer slides with clear, concise information are preferable. Simpler topics can be complemented with more slides to maintain a dynamic flow.

Speaking Pace

Fast speakers might cover more slides effectively. Slower speakers, on the other hand, should opt for fewer slides to match their natural rhythm .

Time Management in Presentations

Aim for each slide to represent approximately 30 to 60 seconds of speaking time . Include brief pauses after each slide for the information to be absorbed or for quick clarifications.

The general guideline for how many slides for a 5-minute presentation falls between 5 to 10 slides. This range is strategic, allowing for information to be presented clearly without overwhelming the audience.

Here’s how to optimize your slides:

• First 30 Seconds: Introduction Slide . Start with a compelling opening that outlines what the presentation will cover.
• Middle Segment (3-4 minutes): Main Content Slides . Divide the core content into digestible segments, each represented by a slide. In addition, choose a presentation design that would allow you to use visuals and bullet points to convey key ideas succinctly.
• Final 30 Seconds: Conclusion Slide . Here, you summarize the main points. End with a strong closing statement or a call to action.

Here’s an example of Buzzfeed’s conclusion slide on their pitch deck uploaded in 2016. The slide emphasized the strengths of the platform and how big it could get in the next years:

Remember, slides are a visual aid, not the main script. They should enhance your verbal communication, not overshadow it.

Content Strategy for 5-Minute Presentations

Crafting the perfect 5-minute presentation hinges on your ability to develop concise content for presentations that captivates and informs. Here’s how to strike that crucial balance:

Focus on Key Messages

Identify the core points you want to convey. Limit them to three or four to avoid overloading your audience. Each slide should represent one key idea, ensuring clarity and focus.

Engaging Storytelling

Use storytelling techniques to make your content more relatable and memorable . Incorporate real-life examples, anecdotes, or relevant statistics to illustrate your points vividly.

Here are a few slides from the pitch deck of Match Box now more popularly known as Tinder:

The story presented may be simple and short, possibly taking only 30 seconds, but it was relatable and was a good material to hook the audience. 

Simplicity is Key

Avoid jargon and complex language. Opt for clear, straightforward wording that’s accessible to all audience members. Use bullet points or numbered lists to break down information into digestible chunks.

If you’re looking for pegs in slide simplicity, check out these first four slides in Purple Go’s pitch deck:

Visual Harmony

Leverage the power of visuals to complement your spoken words. Images, graphs, and charts can convey complex information quickly and effectively. Ensure your slides are not cluttered. Adequate white space enhances readability and focus.

Professional Design Touch

Consider enlisting design experts to elevate your slide aesthetics . After all, a well-designed presentation can significantly enhance message delivery. Professional designers (like those we have here at Penji ) can help create a cohesive visual theme that aligns with your message and brand identity.

Here’s an example of a professional presentation we’ve done for one of our clients:

The Informative-Engaging Balance

Mix facts with narrative elements. While data lends credibility, stories evoke emotional responses. Use rhetorical questions or quick polls to engage the audience and make the content interactive.

The Bottom Line

After going through the essentials of crafting a compelling 5-minute presentation, you now know the tricks to determine the ideal number of slides to create content that strikes the perfect balance between informative and engaging . 

But there’s one more crucial element that can elevate your presentation from good to unforgettable: professional design. This is where Penji’s expertise comes into play. Our team of professional designers understands the power of visual storytelling and can transform your presentation into a visual masterpiece. 

Sign up today and let our team bring your vision to life.

Related articles

12 Types of Custom Illustrations for Branding and Marketing

Cool Vector Designs: Tips, Tricks, and Inspiring Ideas

How ChatGPT Design Can Transform Your Brand

How to Make Money with Service Arbitrage

Unlimited graphic design starting at $499/m