We live in a fast-paced world where access to information has never been this good. But the amount you consume often depends on how fast you read it.
While you can’t read every text you encounter, it helps to swiftly read up on those that interest you. You can achieve this with speed reading.
Speed reading increases your reading scope and saves you time. But that’s not all; it helps you understand complex subjects and process information quickly.
That way, you can read more and gain knowledge faster. I’d bet you’re getting convinced and asking how to achieve this.
Well, that’s what I’m here for; I will show you the speed reading techniques that voracious readers swear by. If you’re ready, let’s get to it.
Speed Reading Techniques Voracious Readers Swear by
1. Skimming and Scanning Techniques
If too many words scare you, this technique will help. Instead of reading the text word for word, skim through the book to get an overview of its content and scan through it to locate its specific facts.
You can do these by reading headings and subheadings to understand the message. Then, you can scan texts for keywords and the main ideas that convey the message.
Identifying key information saves you time and helps you quickly summarise the texts. That way, you can skip over information you consider irrelevant.
Also Read: Foolproof Ways to Become a Bookworm
2. Chunk or Group Words
It’s easier to read many words in smaller groups or portions. This is often how you learn and recall mobile numbers by dividing them into groups of a few digits. Similarly, you can break big texts down into smaller and more manageable sections (chunks).
First, you must identify key phrases or words and organise the information into categories or themes. Then, you can group the related information, which will help you focus on the main concepts.
This allows for faster processing as it enables you to visualise the information rather than reading it. Mental maps and visual aids like diagrams, which visibly represent information, particularly come in handy here.
3. Eliminate Subvocalisation
It’s a common practice to utter words as you read. This subvocalisation reduces your reading pace and limits the amount of information you can process per minute as you read.
Furthermore, it prevents you from making connections between ideas and impairs retention. To improve your reading speed, you must stop subvocalising when you read.
4. Use a Pointer or Guide
You can use pointers to intensely engage with texts when reading. They improve your speed and help you understand complex words.
These pointers could be physical, like a finger, pen, or ruler, or visual, like sticky notes or highlighters. They could also be digital, like cursors or screen rulers. Their purpose is to help you maintain focus and track your reading progress.
However, you’ll need to practise to master using pointers. You also have to choose a pointer that suits your reading style and preferences. For example, if you don’t like colours in your book, you should avoid highlighters.
5. Practice with Speed Reading Apps or Software
There’s always a place for technology; speed reading techniques are not exempt. Speed reading apps and software can help fasten your reading pace. You can choose from several popular ones that will enable you to grasp the main ideas as quickly as you read.
However, you must practise often to improve your reading abilities. As with all applications, you should try different settings to find the best for you.
Plus, using these reading applications alongside traditional reading methods is better.
Also Read: Must-Have Reading Apps to Download as a Book Lover
6. Develop Peripheral Vision
Peripheral vision is the ability to see words surrounding your central area of focus. Many people have learned to read word by word, which isn’t out of place.
But as you grow older, reading like this makes your eyes fix on the exact word, and this focus limits your reading pace. Expanding your peripheral vision allows you to see more words at once.
It also helps to improve concentration and reduce eye fatigue. And, it’s good exercise for your brain and eyes.
7. Minimise Distractions
Although this applies to reading generally, distractions can also affect your reading speed. Phones and social media are the most common ones. But you could also be distracted by noise or visual stimuli or internally by daydreaming or losing focus.
They increase the time you spend reading because of the amount of re-reading and re-focusing you need to do. It also reduces your comprehension and concentration. You can minimise this by shutting off mobile notifications and reading in a quiet environment.
8. Practice Regularly and Set Goals
Like every acquired skill, you’ll need regular practice to master these speed reading techniques. Reading more often will help improve your reading pace. Having a consistent reading routine and setting goals can help you achieve this feat.
The goals must be realistic, within your reach, and have time limits. For instance, you can read chunks of a chapter of a book daily or use sideways glances while reading a few pages to practise.
Also Read: How to Cultivate a Reading Habit
Be an Agile Reader
These speed reading techniques will make you an accomplished reader. But you must incorporate them into your daily reading habits to master them.
Before long, they will make you read fast and effectively, and you’ll be able to read more and faster.
