How many words is a 7-minute speech?
A 7-minute speech is about 910 to 1,050 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute.
At a glance
Words in a 7-minute speech at each pace
| Pace | Words per minute | Words |
|---|---|---|
| Slow | 110 | 770 |
| Average | 130 | 910 |
| Fast | 160 | 1,120 |
- 1.8–2.1 pages single-spaced
- 3.6–4.2 pages double-spaced
- 4–7 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 7-minute speech is used for
- Toastmasters Pathways speeches, most of which run 5 to 7 minutes
- Class presentations and persuasive or informative speeches with a 5–7 minute brief
- British Parliamentary debate speeches, which are 7 minutes each
- Short pitches, project updates and team briefings
- Eulogies, tributes and longer wedding speeches
Timed outline
How to structure a 7-minute speech
A plan for about 7 minutes of speaking. Word counts are at an average 130 words per minute.
- 0:00–0:45
Hook and main message about 98 words
Open with a question, a number or a short story, then say in one sentence what people will take away.
- 0:45–2:30
First point about 228 words
About 1 minute 45 seconds, roughly 230 words. Your strongest point, with one example or piece of evidence.
- 2:30–4:15
Second point about 228 words
Start it by about 2:30. Link it back to your main message in the first sentence.
- 4:15–6:00
Third point about 228 words
Start it by about 4:15. If rehearsal runs long, shorten this one rather than the close.
- 6:00–7:00
Close about 130 words
Start it by 6:00. Sum up the three points, repeat the main message and end on one clear ask or takeaway.
Rehearse your 7-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 7-minute speech?
A 7-minute speech is about 910 to 1,050 words at a normal speaking pace of 130–150 words per minute. A slow speaker at 110 WPM says about 770 words, and a fast one at 160 WPM about 1,120.
How many pages is a 7-minute speech?
About 1.8–2.1 pages single-spaced or 3.6–4.2 pages double-spaced, assuming a typed page of about 500 words single-spaced or 250 double-spaced.
How many slides for a 7-minute presentation?
Plan on 4 to 7 slides. Most presenters spend one to two minutes on each slide; at an average 130 WPM this talk runs about 7 minutes.
Is 700 words enough for a 7-minute speech?
No, it is short. 700 words takes only about 4 minutes 40 seconds at 150 WPM and 5 minutes 20 seconds at 130 WPM. Unless you plan pauses, a demo or audience questions, write about 910 words.
Is 1,200 words too long for a 7-minute speech?
Yes. Even a fast speaker at 160 WPM needs about 7 minutes 30 seconds for 1,200 words, and at 130 WPM it takes about 9 minutes 10 seconds. Cut it to 910 to 1,050 words.
How many points should a 7-minute speech have?
One main message and three supporting points. Give each point about 1 minute 45 seconds, roughly 230 words at an average pace, which is room for a claim, an example and a link to the next point.
How do I keep a 7-minute speech on time?
Set checkpoints rather than watching the whole clock: second point by 2:30, third point by 4:15, close by 6:00. Rehearse out loud with a timer at least twice. If your slot is 5 to 7 minutes, aim to finish at about 6:30 so a slow start doesn't push you over.