Script Timer
Why timing matters for professional video production
When you're delivering client work, runtime isn't a suggestion — it's a specification. Whether you're producing a 30-second spot or a 2-minute explainer, knowing exactly how long your script will take to read is essential for accurate quotes and on-time delivery.
Our script timer uses industry-standard words-per-minute calculations based on professional voiceover rates. Choose from slow pacing (100 WPM) for complex technical content, normal pacing (130 WPM) for conversational delivery, or fast pacing (160 WPM) for energetic broadcast-style reads.
If you're still working out the words themselves, our AI script generator drafts a script to a target runtime that you can bring straight back here to check.
Stop guessing and start delivering with confidence. Use the script timer during pre-production to validate runtime before you book talent or studio time. Add buffer for intros, outros, and transitions to give clients accurate expectations from the start. For the writing itself, from brief to sign-off, see our video script guide.
Boords helps video production teams streamline their entire pre-production workflow — from AI-assisted scriptwriting and storyboarding to client approvals and team collaboration. See why thousands of studios trust Boords to deliver better work, faster.
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Frequently asked questions
Professional voiceover rates typically range from 100-160 words per minute depending on the content type. Normal conversational pace is around 130 WPM, which works well for most corporate videos and explainers. Slower pacing (100 WPM) suits technical or complex content where comprehension is key, while faster pacing (160 WPM) works for energetic commercials and broadcast spots.
Start with your target runtime and work backwards. For a 60-second video at normal pace (130 WPM), you'll need approximately 130 words of script. Remember to account for intro/outro graphics, transitions, and any on-screen text that needs reading time. Our script timer lets you set a target duration and shows exactly how many words you need.
Match your pacing to your content and audience. Corporate explainers and e-learning work best at 120-140 WPM for clarity. TV commercials often run 150-180 WPM to pack in messaging. Documentaries and emotional content benefit from slower pacing around 100-120 WPM. When in doubt, err on the slower side — rushed delivery undermines even the best script.
A 2-minute video script typically needs 240-280 words at normal pace (130 WPM), accounting for natural pauses and transitions. If your video includes graphics, b-roll, or on-screen text, reduce word count accordingly. For a 30-second spot, aim for 65-80 words; for a 90-second video, target 180-210 words.
Our WPM calculations are based on professional voiceover industry standards which factor in natural speech patterns. The slow, normal, and fast presets represent real-world delivery rates used by voice talent. For additional buffer, use the intro/outro options to add 5 seconds each for titles, transitions, or deliberate pauses in your edit.