Speed Reading Techniques – The Basics

As you sit down to study for a big test or finally decide to consume 500 pages of encyclopedia information - imagine how convenient it would be to digest the information at a faster rate. Speed reading is a helpful technique that allows one to complete more books, magazines, and other publications and texts than ever before. Depending on the software or other training program encountered, a variety of methods can effectively elevate the rate of reading and comprehension for any individual. nnOne of the most significant techniques of speed reading involves the concept of eye span, which takes into account the moment when the eyes blink as they pass over lines of text. This blinking mechanism is actually a link in the chain of comprehension and information absorption, which is later processed by the brain. It is also at this moment that an individual encounters the crossroads between reading slow and speed reading. Those who read sentences word-by-word obviously finish their materials at a slower rate. Another setback includes vocalizing every syllable. nnAvoiding what is known as subvocalization (reading word-for-word) is an imperative technique associated with speed reading. It is through this process that the brain better records information when eye span and "eye blink" work together to produce the best reading results. It is important to remember that the shorter your eye span - the fewer amount of details your brain absorbs. nnMany individuals learn how to expand their speed reading by widening their eye span. As they scan material, instead of capturing a couple of words before the blink of their eyes, they are able to digest lengthy phrases and in time can tackle larger chunks of information. Unfortunately, some people suffer reading setbacks when they attempt to force this technique. Speed reading is a skill that should be approached in a slow manner, which ensures better results in the end. nnWhere one reads becomes a great influence in speed reading success, as it is important to take advantage of the most favorable reading conditions. A dimly lit room and cramped quarters already creates barriers in reading, as uncomfortable distractions will slow down comprehension and the absorption of material. When creating an environment with appropriate lighting, plenty of leg room, and surrounding quietness, speed reading exercises are completed in a much better manner. nnAnother basic speed reading technique is to avoid reading passages, sentences, and words twice. Rereading causes one to fall behind in their progress, as it wastes vital time, energy, and effort. Many readers incorrectly assume that this heightens comprehension when in reality - it actually hinders improvement. Over time, the faster one efficiently speed reads, the better their comprehension will become. nnWhen exploring the world of speed reading methods, you may also encounter one of two main approaches. The first is called Tachistoscopic Scroll Presentation (TSP) or the Eye Trainer Scroll Method, which focuses on the art of scrolling by widening eye span or learning on how to cover as many words as possible at one time. The second speed reading technique is referred to as Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP), where students learn how to zero in on text from the center of their vision. This allows one to read at a more rapid pace. It is under this mode of thinking that the more centralized text is from vision - the less complicated and cumbersome reading becomes.