Reduce Filler Words
Goal: use fewer than two filler words per minute by pausing instead.
Start drill 1: Count and cutWhy it happens
Filler words are your brain holding the floor while it looks for the next thought. They are not a character flaw — everyone uses them — but a high rate makes you sound less sure than you are.
The goal is not zero. It is replacing most fillers with short silent pauses, which listeners hear as thoughtfulness.
Drills
Drill 1
Count and cut
Do a one-minute answer, note your fillers per minute, then retry the same question aiming to halve it.
Quick Practice · 30s prep · 60s to speak · PREP
Start this drillDrill 2
Silent pause
Every time you feel an “um” coming, close your mouth and pause instead. Harder topics make this harder — start easy.
English Practice · 30s prep · 60s to speak · Past → Present → Future
Start this drillDrill 3
No-prep JAM
Speak for a minute with zero prep. Fillers spike without preparation, so this is the real test.
Quick Practice · no prep · 60s to speak · no structure
Start this drill
Tips
- Most fillers happen at the start of sentences and between ideas. Plan your transitions: “My second reason is…”.
- Listen back to one recording a day. Awareness alone reduces fillers.
- Under two fillers per minute is excellent. Under four is good.
FAQ
Why do I say um so much?+
Usually because you start speaking before you know how the sentence ends, or you feel silence is not allowed. Both improve with structure and practice.
How many filler words is normal?+
Most people use several per minute in casual speech. For presentations and interviews, under two per minute sounds polished.
Other skills
Speak Clearly
Speak at 120–160 words per minute in short, complete sentences.
Think on Your Feet
Give a structured answer with 15 seconds of preparation, then with none.
Stop Rambling
End every answer with a one-sentence conclusion, before the time runs out.
Answer Questions Clearly
State your answer in the first sentence.