How many words is a 1-minute speech?
A 1-minute speech is about 130 to 150 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute.
At a glance
Words in a 1-minute speech at each pace
| Pace | Words per minute | Words |
|---|---|---|
| Slow | 110 | 110 |
| Average | 130 | 130 |
| Fast | 160 | 160 |
- 0.3 pages single-spaced
- 0.5–0.6 pages double-spaced
- 1 slide
Pages assume about 500 typed words single-spaced or 250 double-spaced. Slides assume one to two minutes on each; the slide count calculator works it out for other styles.
Where it fits
What a 1-minute speech is used for
- Elevator pitches and networking introductions
- Introducing yourself in class, at a team meeting or on the first day of a course
- Toastmasters Table Topics, which run 1 to 2 minutes, and other impromptu speaking practice
- Language-class speaking tasks, such as the 1–2 minute talk in IELTS Speaking Part 2
- Quick toasts, thank-yous and award acceptances
Timed outline
How to structure a 1-minute speech
A plan for about 1 minute of speaking. Word counts are at an average 130 words per minute.
- 0:00–0:10
Hook and main message about 22 words
One line to get attention, then the one thing you want people to remember. Skip the warm-up.
- 0:10–0:35
Main point about 54 words
Say why your message matters, in plain words. One minute has room for one point, not three.
- 0:35–0:50
Example about 33 words
Start it by 0:35. One concrete example, number or short story that backs up the point.
- 0:50–1:00
Close about 22 words
Start it by 0:50. Repeat the main message in one line and end on a clear ask or thanks.
Rehearse your 1-minute speech with notes and a timer on your phone
Practise it the way you will give it. Copresent puts your Google Slides speaker notes, a timer and the slide controls on your phone. No second screen needed.
See how it worksOther lengths
Planning a different length?
FAQ
How many words is a 1-minute speech?
A 1-minute speech is about 130 to 150 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute. A slow speaker at 110 WPM says about 110 words, and a fast one at 160 WPM about 160.
How many pages is a 1-minute speech?
About 0.3 pages single-spaced or 0.5–0.6 pages double-spaced, assuming a typed page of about 500 words single-spaced or 250 double-spaced.
How many slides for a 1-minute presentation?
Plan on 1 slide. Most presenters spend one to two minutes on each slide; at an average 130 WPM this talk runs about 1 minute.
Is 200 words too long for a 1-minute speech?
Yes. 200 words takes about 1 minute 20 seconds even at a fast 160 WPM, and about 1 minute 30 seconds at 130 WPM. Cut it to 130 to 150 words.
Is 100 words enough for a 1-minute speech?
It is short. 100 words takes about 40 seconds at 150 WPM and 50 seconds at 130 WPM. That is fine if you pause a lot or the limit is strict, but aim for about 130 words to fill the minute.
How many sentences is a 1-minute speech?
About 7 to 10 sentences, if your sentences average 15 to 20 words. Short sentences are easier to say and easier to follow, so lean towards the higher count.
How do I structure a 1-minute speech?
One message, one point, one example. Spend about 10 seconds on the hook, 40 seconds on your point and example, and 10 seconds on the close. There is no time for a second point, so pick your strongest.