Video Script Timer — How Long Will My Video Be?

How to use the video script timer

1. 1

   Paste your script

   Copy your full video script into the text box. Word count updates in real time.

2. 2

   Select your speaking rate

   Choose a preset or enter your personal WPM (measure it with our WPM Calculator tool).

3. 3

   Read the estimated duration

   The tool shows estimated length and categorizes it as Short, Standard, or Long-form YouTube.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is the video script timer?

Very accurate for scripts you read directly. If you ad-lib, pause frequently, or include long pauses, actual duration may be 10–20% longer. For tightly scripted ads and narration it is highly reliable.

What is the average speaking rate for YouTube videos?

Most YouTubers speak at 130–160 WPM. Educational channels tend toward 100–130 WPM. Fast entertainment content runs 160–200 WPM. The Normal preset (130 WPM) is a safe default for most creators.

How many words is a 10-minute YouTube video?

At 130 WPM: ~1,300 words. At 150 WPM: ~1,500 words. At 100 WPM: ~1,000 words. A 10-minute video script is roughly 1,200–1,500 words for most creators.

How long should a YouTube Short script be?

YouTube Shorts are max 60 seconds. At 160 WPM: ~160 words. Aim for 120–150 words to leave room for natural pacing and non-verbal moments.

Can I use this for podcast scripts?

Yes. Conversational podcasting typically runs 130–150 WPM. Use the custom WPM field if you know your personal speaking rate from a recorded clip.

How do I find my personal WPM?

Use our free Words Per Minute Calculator. Record yourself speaking for 1–2 minutes from a script, then enter the text and recording duration to get your exact WPM.

Does ad-lib content affect the estimate?

Yes. This tool estimates duration for a scripted read. If you typically improvise 20% of your content on top of the script, add ~20% to the result. Experienced creators learn to calibrate based on their style.

What about intros, outros, and B-roll time?

The timer only counts speaking time for the pasted text. Add extra time manually for non-spoken elements: a 30-second intro, 20 seconds of B-roll, a 15-second outro = +65 seconds on top of the script estimate.

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