Sunday, 1 January 2017

Expert Advice On Fast Reading

By Betty Fisher


Like all other tasks, speed enables a reader to cover more content within a short time. It is strenuous and taxing to practice especially at the beginning. However, as you master the techniques, it becomes easier and comprehension is enhanced. Fast reading tips provided by experts enable even amateurs to advance their skills. You may opt to cover the text thoroughly, skim or scan. The technique you choose depends on expected outcome. How then do you improve both speed and comprehension?

Do not talk as you read. There is a tendency to sub-vocalize words, phrases and sentences. This has a negative effect on your speed considering that muscles react slower than your brains. While vocalizing helps in memorizing, it slows you down. To keep your lips still, hold a finger over them. Chewing or humming a song may also work though not as effective. It keeps your lips occupied.

Cover the area you have already read. Eyes have a tendency of returning to areas already covered. The movements are short and may not appear to be harmful, but they really slow you down. Covering allows you to concentrate on the important areas. Returning could, however, be a sign that you did not understand what you read. When it happens too much, it is advisable that you slow down.

Eye movements affect the speed at which you cover a text. As long as your eyes are in motion, it is impossible to read. The eyes have to first stop. As such, maximize the moment when your eyes stop. Read as much within a short time. Pay attention to important words for comprehension purposes. Skipping too many words will, however, distort your understanding.

Identify the reason for reading. Some read to grasp the content while others want to pluck certain figures, phrases and words from the text. Academicians need to think through every word, phrase and sentence. Scanning will help to pluck the words or figures. Skimming will give you an idea of what the text is all about. For academic purposes, you need to comb through every word. Speeds will differ even though the text is similar.

Like every other skill, practice. You may need to read for the purposes of vocalization. In other cases, you need to be silent to avoid distracting other people. Depending on your target, practice with a timer. Endeavor to reduce the time it takes to complete a page. Bring the time as low as possible with every attempt. You will gain confidence in understanding even as you gain speed. When it is time to make a presentation or cover course work, you will have mastered speed and comprehension.

Distractions affect the speed regardless of their intensity. Switch off music, television, messenger, video games, avoid conversations, etc. Your mind cannot commit to more than one activity at a time. Ensure that the mind is also calm with no running thoughts. Your only focus at the moment should be the text at hand. Concentrate and later turn to the other activities, one at a time.

There are apps and software to assist you with speed. You may use them depending on your target. Endeavor to gain skills that can be applied across different platforms like conversations, reading, presentations, etc. Like all other skills in life, practice will make perfect.




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