What is the standard duration for a speaking turn in discussions?

The standard duration for a speaking turn in discussions is generally considered to be around 7 minutes. This time frame allows individuals to express their thoughts thoroughly while maintaining the flow of dialogue without overwhelming other participants. In discussions, particularly in more formal or structured environments like meetings or panels, this length balances the need for adequate information sharing with the requirement to keep the conversation moving forward.

A duration shorter than 7 minutes, like 1 or 3 minutes, might limit the depth of responses, resulting in a superficial understanding of the topic. Conversely, allowing durations longer than 7 minutes, such as 5 or even 10 minutes, can lead to lengthy monologues that may disengage listeners and reduce overall participation. Therefore, 7 minutes is an effective standard that promotes both comprehensive communication and engagement among all participants in a discussion.