How Many Words Is a 10-Minute Sermon?
A 10-minute sermon is typically 1,100–1,600 words. Preaching runs slower than ordinary speech: deliberate pauses, emphasis, scripture readings and moments for the congregation to respond all lower your effective pace. At a measured 110 wpm, plan for about 1,100 words; at an average 130 wpm, about 1,300 words. Common settings for a 10-minute sermon include brief chapel services, school assemblies, wedding and funeral homilies, and midweek devotionals. Paste your manuscript below to check the estimated delivery time.
A 10-minute sermon is 1,100–1,600 words depending on delivery pace. Most preachers speak at a measured 110–130 wpm, so a realistic target is 1,100–1,300 words. Fast, conversational delivery (160 wpm) reaches 1,600 words. Paste your own draft to see what it really runs at your pace.
Check your own speechWord count range (10 minutes)
| Speed | Words per minute | words / 10 minutes |
|---|---|---|
| Slow | 110 wpm | 1,100 words |
| Average | 130 wpm | 1,300 words |
| Fast | 160 wpm | 1,600 words |
Or paste your script to check its length:
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