How many pages per hour should I prepare if I am reading a public lecture?

Question

I have to give a two-hour public talk soon, and I am writing out my lecture. Can anyone give me pointers on how many double-spaced pages per hour one typically reads aloud when giving a lecture? Thanks for the advice.

I'm writing in 12-point font, double-spaced, typical margins.

Answer 1

I would suggest practicing reading it to see what pace you go.

Will you have visuals? Will there be time to answer questions? Will you give a short break? What about small group discussion questions? If you allow the audience to speak with the person next to him about a particular topic for 3 or 4 minutes it will help break up the monotony. This also seems to be the trend lately in lectures.

All of these factor in to the length of your speech/lecture. It can be difficult to listen to someone speak for 2 hours and pay full attention. By breaking it up with questions, etc. you will help your audience to gain more and retain more.