Script Length Calculator (Words to Video Time)
Enter the word count and your speaking pace.
Your numbers
About 130 to 160 for most narration; slower for explainers, faster for promos
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Your results
Spoken length
Spoken length
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Minutes
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Words for the target length
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Approximate pages (250 words each)
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Script Length Calculator (Words to Video Time) by TheCalcTools
How the Script Length Calculator (Words to Video Time) works
Speaking time = words ÷ speaking rate. Most narrators speak about 130 to 160 words a minute; add time for pauses, emphasis and on-screen visuals.
Time yourself reading a paragraph aloud to find your own rate, then use it here.
The formula
Minutes = words ÷ wpm × (1 + pause allowance)
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Words in the script | 1200 |
|---|---|
| Speaking rate (words per minute) | 150 |
| Target length (minutes) | 10 |
| Extra time for pauses and B-roll | 10 % |
- 1,200 words at 150 wpm with 10% pauses: 8 min 48 s.
- A 10-minute video needs about 1,364 words.
Result:
| Spoken length | 8 min 48 s |
|---|---|
| Minutes | 8.80 |
| Words for the target length | 1,364 |
| Approximate pages (250 words each) | 4.8 |
Frequently asked questions
How many words for a 10-minute video?
About 1,360 words at 150 wpm with a 10% allowance for pauses.
Sources and further reading
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This calculator gives estimates for information only. Check important results independently before you rely on them. See our disclaimer.