• Module 2 · Write the Script
  • 1 min read · about 20 min lab
  • Builds: Your 30–60 second script

How Many Words in a 30, 45, or 60-Second Video Script?

Words per second, and trimming a script to its target length.

Key takeaway & what you'll build

At about 2.5 words a second, a 30-second video is roughly 70–80 words, 45 seconds is 105–115, and 60 seconds is 140–150. Budget words to each part, and when you're over, cut the tension first, swap spoken words for visuals, or split it into two videos.

You'll build: Your 30–60 second script

The math

Most people speak at about 2.5 words per second in a clear, energetic short-form delivery.

  • 30 seconds: about 70–80 words
  • 45 seconds: about 105–115 words
  • 60 seconds: about 140–150 words

Leave room for pauses, on-screen moments with no talking, and your CTA.

Budget by part

For a 45-second video:

  • Hook: 0–3 s (about 8 words)
  • Tension: 3–15 s (about 30 words)
  • Payoff: 15–40 s (about 60 words)
  • CTA: 40–45 s (about 12 words)

Trimming

If you're over:

  1. Cut the tension first. People often over-explain the problem.
  2. Replace spoken words with visuals (lesson 5).
  3. Make it two videos. A long payoff with several steps might be a series.

Shorter usually wins. A tight 30 seconds that people finish beats a baggy 60 that they don't.

Try it

Count your words, pick your target length, and trim to fit. Mark each part (hook, tension, payoff, CTA) with its timing, which you'll reuse in the storyboard.

Hands-on lab

Your Script

Submit your finished 30–60 second script with the hook, tension, payoff, and CTA clearly labeled, each with its timing, plus your target length and word count.

What the AI grader checks for

  • Hook strength (30%): The hook starts at the most interesting moment, with no intro, and makes a promise the script delivers.
  • One clear idea (30%): The script is built around a single idea that could be stated in one sentence, with tension and payoff serving it.
  • Fits the target length (20%): The word count matches the target length at roughly 2.5 words per second, and each part has sensible timing.
  • Specific CTA (20%): The call to action asks for one concrete action, not a vague "like and subscribe".

Ask the AI course tutor

The tutor knows this whole course. Pick a question to start a conversation about this lesson.