How to use the speech timer
- Pick a speech length, such as 5–7 minutes, or type the shortest (green) and longest (red) times.
- Press Start when the speaker begins. The disk counts down to the red time.
- Green means the minimum time is reached, yellow means start wrapping up, and red means time is up. After red, the time over counts up.
Timing signals for common speeches
Many speaking clubs, such as Toastmasters, signal green at the minimum time, yellow halfway between, and red at the maximum. The presets follow that pattern.
| Speech | Green | Yellow | Red |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 minutes (impromptu) | 1:00 | 1:30 | 2:00 |
| 2–3 minutes (evaluation) | 2:00 | 2:30 | 3:00 |
| 4–6 minutes | 4:00 | 5:00 | 6:00 |
| 5–7 minutes (prepared speech) | 5:00 | 6:00 | 7:00 |
| 8–10 minutes | 8:00 | 9:00 | 10:00 |
Time over
When the red time arrives, the disk stays red and the time over counts up, like +0:23, so the speaker and the timekeeper both see how far over it went.
The speech timer makes no sound and does not flash the tab title, so it never interrupts the speaker. Speech time is not added to your focus history.
Showing the signals to the speaker
Press Focus mode (or the F key) to fill the screen with the disk, then set the laptop or tablet where the speaker can see it. Speech contest rules usually ask for signals the speaker can see without distracting the audience.
In online meetings, keep the timer on your own screen, or open the mini timer, which floats above other windows in Chrome and Edge.
Presentations and meetings
The same signals work for pitches, class presentations and stand-ups. Set the shortest and longest times you want, and the colors tell the presenter when to start wrapping up.
Speech timer FAQ
What do green, yellow and red mean?
Green: the minimum time is reached. Yellow: you are halfway between the minimum and the maximum, so start wrapping up. Red: the maximum time is up.
Can I set my own times?
Yes. Type the shortest (green) and longest (red) times in minutes, and yellow is set halfway between. The longest time can be up to 60 minutes.
Does it beep at the end?
No. The speech timer is silent so it never interrupts a speaker. When red arrives the disk flashes briefly and the time over starts counting.
Can I use it for Toastmasters meetings?
Yes. The 1–2, 2–3 and 5–7 minute presets match the usual table topics, evaluation and prepared speech signals. Wontimer is not affiliated with Toastmasters International.
Is speech time saved?
No. Speech time is not added to your focus history. The speech length you choose is saved in your browser for next time.