How many words fit in a 30-second or 60-second video?
Divide the length in seconds by 60 and multiply by the speaking pace. At a natural 150 words per minute, a 30-second Reel holds about 75 spoken words and a 60-second Short about 150; at a calm 130 it is 65 and 130, and at an upbeat 170 it is 85 and 170. This page estimates time with the same formula: words divided by the pace, times 60. If the script runs long, cut words rather than speeding up, because a rushed delivery is harder to follow with the sound off and the hook needs a pause to land.
Words per length at three paces
| Length | 130 WPM | 150 WPM | 170 WPM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 s | 33 | 38 | 43 |
| 30 s | 65 | 75 | 85 |
| 60 s | 130 | 150 | 170 |
| 90 s | 195 | 225 | 255 |