How many words is a 4-minute speech?
A 4-minute speech is about 520 to 600 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute.
At a glance
Words in a 4-minute speech at each pace
| Pace | Words per minute | Words |
|---|---|---|
| Slow | 110 | 440 |
| Average | 130 | 520 |
| Fast | 160 | 640 |
- 1–1.2 pages single-spaced
- 2.1–2.4 pages double-spaced
- 2–4 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 4-minute speech is used for
- Toastmasters Ice Breakers, where 4 minutes is the green light (4–6 minutes)
- Class speeches and oral presentations with a 3–5 minute limit
- Persuasive and informative speeches in speech and debate classes
- Job interview presentations with a short brief
- Wedding speeches, eulogies and tributes that need a little more than a toast
Timed outline
How to structure a 4-minute speech
A plan for about 4 minutes of speaking. Word counts are at an average 130 words per minute.
- 0:00–0:25
Hook and main message about 54 words
Open with a question, a number or a short story, then say the one thing you want people to remember.
- 0:25–1:25
First point about 130 words
Your strongest point first, with one example. A minute is about 130 words at an average pace.
- 1:25–2:25
Second point about 130 words
Start it by about 1:25. One more reason or example that backs up the main message.
- 2:25–3:25
Third point about 130 words
Start it by about 2:25. If rehearsal runs long, shorten this one first.
- 3:25–4:00
Close about 76 words
Start it by 3:25. Repeat the main message in one line and end on a clear ask, thanks or call to action.
Rehearse your 4-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 4-minute speech?
A 4-minute speech is about 520 to 600 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute. A slow speaker at 110 WPM says about 440 words, and a fast one at 160 WPM about 640.
How many pages is a 4-minute speech?
About 1–1.2 pages single-spaced or 2.1–2.4 pages double-spaced, assuming a typed page of about 500 words single-spaced or 250 double-spaced.
How many slides for a 4-minute presentation?
Plan on 2 to 4 slides. Most presenters spend one to two minutes on each slide; at an average 130 WPM this talk runs about 4 minutes.
Is 500 words enough for a 4-minute speech?
It is a little short. 500 words takes about 3 minutes 20 seconds at 150 WPM and 3 minutes 50 seconds at 130 WPM, so you will finish early. Add one example or story to reach 520 to 600 words.
Is 700 words too long for a 4-minute speech?
Yes. Even a fast speaker at 160 WPM needs about 4 minutes 20 seconds for 700 words, and at 130 WPM it takes about 5 minutes 20 seconds. Cut it to about 550 words.
How many points should a 4-minute speech have?
One main message and three supporting points. Give each point about a minute, roughly 130 words at an average pace, which is enough for one claim and one example.
Is 4 minutes long enough for a Toastmasters Ice Breaker?
Yes, but only just. The Ice Breaker runs 4 to 6 minutes, so 4 minutes is the minimum. Aim for about 5 minutes, roughly 650 words at 130 WPM, so a few nerves or a fast start don't leave you under time.