1. Identify your purpose
Before engaging in speed reading, identify your objective. What are you reading for? Is it for entertainment or research? Is the material new to you, or is it something you already know? Knowing why you are reading it can help you scan and focus on essential information to meet your objective quicker.
2. Eliminate distractions
Reduce distractions that may cause you to read slowly. Choose a quiet and calm room or place to start reading. Turn off your mobile phone, television or music, and close windows if there are outside noises that could disturb you. Try to make sure that you are well rested before starting the reading, especially if you are tired.
3. Eliminate subvocalization
Subvocalization is reading the printed word aloud, and it slows down the reading process. To avoid subvocalization, try to view the text, instead of sounding it out. Do not repeat the words in your mind or read them aloud. You can practice this technique by reading more words per line or by using an index card to cover the unread text lines while reading.
4. Use a pen or finger to guide your eyes
Using a pen or finger is an excellent technique to guide your eyes while reading. Allow your pen or finger to glide beneath the sentence while reading. It’s emphasizing and increasing the speed while retaining comprehension. You will train your eyes to move faster across the page without losing focus on the content, and you can adjust the pace of your reading to match the material you’re reading.
5. Take breaks
Reading for extended periods can cause headaches, eye strain or fatigue, making it difficult to learn speed reading. So, take regular breaks, every twenty minutes or so, to help maintain your concentration throughout your reading session. You can do some exercises or stretches during this time, which will relax your mind and eyes.
6. Practice, practice, practice.
Practice is vital when it comes to developing any skill, including speed reading. One of the most effective ways to practice speed reading is to time yourself while reading a passage, and then try to beat your previous record. Reading widely and consistently, you can work on your comprehension of the material, which is essential with the speed reading.
In conclusion, learning speed reading takes patience, time, and practice. With a few tips and tricks and a lot of determination, you can learn to read faster and more efficiently while retaining the comprehension of the material. Happy speed reading!