Speech timing
How Long is a 700 Word Speech?
A quick timing guide for 700 words at slow, average, and fast speaking speeds.
Slow, average, and fast timings
Calculated for 100, 130, and 160 WPM.
Average time: 5 min 23 sec at 130 WPM.
| Pace | WPM | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Slow | 100 wpm | 7 min |
| Average | 130 wpm | 5 min 23 sec |
| Fast | 160 wpm | 4 min 23 sec |
At a conversational speaking pace of 130 words per minute, a 700 word speech takes approximately 5 minutes and 23 seconds. If you speak slowly at 100 WPM, expect around 7 minutes. A faster delivery at 160 WPM brings it down to about 4 minutes 23 seconds.
At 700 words, you're at roughly 5-6 minutes of speaking time — a substantial presentation that can cover a full argument with evidence. This is common for academic conference slots or opening remarks at larger events.
Reading the same text silently? At an average reading speed of 238 WPM, 700 words takes about 2 minutes 56 seconds.
When to use a 700 word speech
A 700 word speech fits most short presentations: class talks, team updates, wedding toasts, or conference lightning talks. This is the sweet spot for holding attention while still covering meaningful ground.
Structure matters: opening hook, 2–3 main points, clear close. Rehearse with the timer to find where you naturally pause for emphasis.
What fits in 700 words?
- Academic conference short paper presentation
- Keynote opening remarks
- Graduation speaker address (short)
- Documentary voiceover script (5-min segment)
Related timing pages
Compare similar word counts or jump straight into practice.
Frequently asked questions
Count-specific answers for this exact speech length.
How long is a 700 word speech?
A 700 word speech takes about 7 minutes at a slow pace (100 WPM), 5 minutes 23 seconds at an average pace (130 WPM), and 4 minutes 23 seconds at a fast pace (160 WPM).
How long does it take to read 700 words?
Reading 700 words silently takes about 2 minutes 56 seconds at an average reading speed of 238 WPM.