How to calculate script duration accurately
Whether you're producing a 30-second radio ad, a YouTube tutorial, or a feature-length documentary, timing is everything. Most people speak at an average rate of 150 words per minute (WPM), but this can vary significantly depending on the tone and intent of the content.
Standard Reading Speeds:
- Slow (130 WPM): Ideal for technical tutorials, heavy instructional content, or dramatic readings where pauses are frequent and emphasis is key.
- Average (150 WPM): The standard pace for most audiobooks, news reports, and general presentations. It's conversational and easy to follow.
- Fast (170 WPM): Best for high-energy advertisements, fast-paced explainers, or upbeat social media content where every second counts.
Why Word Count Isn't Enough
While word count gives you a baseline, the complexity of the words matters. Scientific terminology or long, multi-syllabic words take longer to pronounce than simple conversational English. When using this calculator, consider adding a few extra seconds if your script is dense or technical.
Uttermost Voice uses these standard timings to ensure that when you clone your voice and generate speech, the pacing feels natural and professional. If you're ready to hear your script spoken aloud, we offer a service where you can generate a high-quality emotive narration in your own voice, without spending even a minute recording!