Having a strong speed reading techniques is important for academic success, professional development, and personal enrichment. The ability to read effectively – fast and comprehensively allows you to acquire and process information efficiently, comprehend complex texts, and engage with a wide range of ideas and perspectives easily.
In this work, we will look into some of the method or technique that can be adopted to improve your reading speed.
Useful reading speed techniques for reading fast
Avoid the use of subvocalization
The first technique to use and improve your reading speed is to avoid the use of sub-vocalization. Subvocalization means to silently pronounce words in your mind while reading, this slows down your reading speed instead of increasing it because you will be trying to subconsciously match your speaking pace.
However, your brain can comprehend words much faster than you can speak them. To fasten your reading speed, try to overcome subvocalization by consciously trying to avoid speaking the words in your mind as you read. Only poems are designed to be read aloud, otherwise most written texted better read only in the mind.
Make use of the pacemaker technique
To maintain a fast reading pace and improve concentration, make use of the pacemaker technique. You can do this by using your finger or a pen to guide your eyes movement along the text as you read.
Move the tool beneath the words at a slightly faster pace than your usual reading speed ability. This reading technique helps you avoid frequent retracting, encourages a smoother reading flow and ultimately it increases your your reading speed since your brain tries to catch-up with the speed of your pacemaker.
You can use this method to only improve your reading speed and not to make it a reading habit
Expand your vision
Train your eyes to pay more attention on compound of words instead of fixating more on each word individually. Begin with small word groups, such as three words, and practice focusing on the middle word without actively reading the words that surrounds it.
Slowly and steadily increase the number of the word groups and practice jumping from one compounds of words to another compound of words.
For example, you can pay more attention on the words “loves” while absorbing the words closer to it without specifically reading them, such as “She loves reading” or “Your father loves reading this.”
Pay more emphasis on the overall write-up sections
Another way to improve your reading speed is emphasizing on sections of the content you before you start reading. Before diving into a write up, scan for headings and keywords that gives you an idea of the content. Find out the importance of each section in relation to your overall understanding of the text.
If certain sections are less crucial, skim through them at a higher speed. This method allows you to allocate more time and attention to the sections that require deeper understanding.
Avoid retracking
Resist the temptation of constantly backtracking or re-reading portions of the text you’ve already covered. Trust in your reading comprehension abilities and avoid doubting yourself. By maintaining a forward momentum, you’ll improve your reading speed and ensure a smoother reading experience.
Minimize distractions
Creating a conducive reading environment that minimizes distractions and improve your reading speed. Find a quiet place where you can concentrate on the text without distractions.
Consider using earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to keep out external noise. In addition, keep your phone or other likely distractions out of sight to maintain focus and concentration.
Regular practice
Improving your reading speed requires consistent practice. Dedicate at least 10 minutes each day to practice the aforementioned techniques.
Over time, with regular repetition, these strategies will become second nature, and you’ll naturally incorporate them into your reading process.
Moreso, constant practice helps in the retention of certain phrases and clauses which will help your brain to be able to predict certain texts words that follows after a certain line of words.
By adhering these tips and practicing regularly it regularly for at least 30 days, you will see significant enhancement in your reading speed and comprehension skills.
