How many words is a 3-minute speech?
A 3-minute speech is about 390 to 450 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute.
At a glance
Words in a 3-minute speech at each pace
| Pace | Words per minute | Words |
|---|---|---|
| Slow | 110 | 330 |
| Average | 130 | 390 |
| Fast | 160 | 480 |
- 0.8–0.9 pages single-spaced
- 1.6–1.8 pages double-spaced
- 2–3 slides
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 3-minute speech is used for
- Class presentations and school speeches with a strict time limit
- Wedding toasts and best man or maid of honour speeches
- Pitch competitions and Three Minute Thesis (3MT) talks
- Job interview presentations and "tell us about yourself" answers
- Team updates, award acceptances and short welcome speeches
Timed outline
How to structure a 3-minute speech
A plan for about 3 minutes of speaking. Word counts are at an average 130 words per minute.
- 0:00–0:20
Hook and main message about 43 words
Open with a question, a number or a short story, then say the one thing you want people to remember.
- 0:20–1:05
First point about 98 words
Your strongest point first, with one example. Three minutes leaves no room for a warm-up.
- 1:05–1:50
Second point about 98 words
One more reason or example that backs up the main message.
- 1:50–2:35
Third point about 98 words
Your last point. If you are running long, this is the one to cut.
- 2:35–3:00
Close about 54 words
Repeat the main message in one line and end on a clear ask, thanks or toast.
Rehearse your 3-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 3-minute speech?
A 3-minute speech is about 390 to 450 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute. A slow speaker at 110 WPM says about 330 words, and a fast one at 160 WPM about 480.
How many pages is a 3-minute speech?
About 0.8–0.9 pages single-spaced or 1.6–1.8 pages double-spaced, assuming a typed page of about 500 words single-spaced or 250 double-spaced.
How many slides for a 3-minute presentation?
Plan on 2 to 3 slides. Most presenters spend one to two minutes on each slide; at an average 130 WPM this talk runs about 3 minutes.
Is 500 words too long for a 3-minute speech?
Usually, yes. 500 words takes about 3 minutes 20 seconds at a brisk 150 WPM and nearly 4 minutes at 130 WPM. Aim for about 400 words so you have room to pause and still finish on time.
How many points should a 3-minute speech have?
One main message and two or three supporting points. Each point gets about 45 seconds, roughly 100 words, which is enough for one claim and one example.
How do I make sure I finish in 3 minutes?
Rehearse out loud with a timer at least three times, at the pace you'll really speak. Most people speed up when nervous, so if you finish at 2:45 in rehearsal you are on track.