Script Timer - How Long Is My Video Script? (Reels, Shorts, TikTok)
Speaking time for any script, with 15/30/60 second markers.
Updated October 2026
Private by design: your files are processed on your own device and never uploaded.
How to use
- 1 Paste your voice-over or talking-head script.
- 2 Choose a speaking pace that matches you (150 words per minute is average).
- 3 Read the total time and see which formats it fits.
- 4 Use the markers to cut the script so the payoff lands before viewers leave.
How speaking time is calculated
Most people speak 140 to 160 words per minute on camera; energetic short-form creators reach 180 to 200. The timer divides your word count by the chosen pace and places markers at 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 180 seconds so you can see exactly which sentence plays at each point.
Ideal lengths in 2026
Hooks must land in the first 3 seconds. Most high-performing Reels and TikToks are 15 to 45 seconds. YouTube Shorts can be up to 3 minutes, but under 60 seconds still loops best. TikTok's Creator Rewards only pays on videos longer than one minute, which is why many creators now script 61 to 90 second videos.
Cutting a script that runs long
Delete the intro sentence, merge examples, and replace explanations with on-screen text. If a point does not change what the viewer does next, cut it. Re-paste to check the new length.
Guides that use this tool
- How Much Does TikTok Pay in 2026? Creator Rewards, Brand Deals and More
TikTok pays about $0.40-$1.00 per 1,000 qualified views in the Creator Rewards Program. Here is how payouts work, who qualifies, and the bigger income streams.
- 100 Hooks for Reels, TikTok and Shorts That Stop the Scroll (2026)
100 proven opening lines for short-form video in 8 styles: curiosity, contrarian, story, list, how-to, question, POV and urgency. Copy, fill in your topic, film.
- Snapchat Spotlight Guide 2026: Size, Length, Safe Zones and How to Get Views
Snapchat Spotlight videos are 1080x1920, 5-60 seconds. Learn the safe zones, captions, posting rhythm and how to repurpose TikToks and Reels for Spotlight.
Questions
How many words is a 60-second script?
About 150 words at a normal pace, 180 to 190 for fast short-form delivery.
How many words for a 10-minute YouTube video?
Around 1,400 to 1,600 words.
Does it account for pauses?
Choose a slower pace if you pause often or show B-roll without speaking.
Can I use it for podcasts and presentations?
Yes, any spoken script.
Is my script uploaded?
No. It stays in your browser.
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