Speed reading is basically a set of techniques and practices designed to help readers read faster while maintaining or even improving comprehension. Speed reading has become increasingly popular as the demand for processing information quickly grows in the digital age. Proponents of speed reading claim that with the right methods, one can significantly increase speed in dealing with text (reading).

The Nature of Reading

Before deep diving into speed reading techniques, it is essential to understand how humans naturally read. The process of reading involves recognizing words and their meanings, understanding sentence structures, and comprehending larger text segments. Humans' eyes move in small jumps, called saccades, from one part of the text to another, pausing momentarily on certain words or phrases — this pause is known as fixation. During fixation, the brain processes the words including their meanings and interpreting the messages.

The average reader's speed ranges from 200 to 300 WpM, with variations depending on the text's complexity, the reader's familiarity with the subject matter, etc. Faster reading happens when the number and duration of fixations are reduced, or when more words are processed during each fixation.

Reading is broadly defined to include the analysis of various texts, whether print or non-print, conceived and practiced within social/cultural contexts where values, beliefs, norms, etc¹.

Speed Reading Techniques

Doing speed reading needs combination of reading techniques. There are several popular techniques and methods that claim to help readers increase their speed

#1. Chunking

Chunking, also known as group reading, literally involves reading multiple words or phrases at a time, rather than word by word. By training the brain to recognize word groups as single entities, chunking reduces the number of fixations per line of text, thereby increasing reading speed. This method teaches readers to broaden their peripheral vision so that they can take in more words with each glance. To practice chunking, the following points can be considered:

#2. Minimizing Subvocalization

Subvocalization is the internal speech we "hear" in our minds while reading. Most readers silently "say" the words to themselves as they read, which can slow down the reading process. While subvocalization helps with comprehension, it can limit reading speed to the pace at which one can internally speak, which is typically around 200 to 250 WPM.

Minimizing subvocalization involves training oneself to read without mentally pronouncing each word. Speed readers do this by focusing on visual input rather than internal auditory processing, recognizing entire words or phrases in a single glance.

#3. Eliminating Regression

Regression is the habit of backtracking or re-reading words and sentences, often unconsciously. This habit can severely slow down reading speed and disrupt comprehension. Many readers regress due to lack of confidence in their understanding, or simply out of habit.

To eliminate regression, it is crucial to build reading confidence. Speed readers aim to trust their ability to grasp the meaning of the text on the first read, reducing the need to go back and re-read previous sections.

#4. Skimming and Scanning

Skimming and scanning are popular reading techniques which are believed to contribute significantly to speed reading³. Skimming involves reading quickly to grasp the gist of the content without focusing on details, while scanning refers to quickly looking for specific information in the text. These techniques are not true "reading" in the traditional sense but are incredibly useful in certain contexts, such as when reviewing material for research or when time is limited.

• Focus on keywords, headings, subheadings, and the first and last sentences of paragraphs.
• For scanning, let your eyes move rapidly over the text to identify the specific word or concept you're looking for.

#5. Field of View

Eye fixation refers to the moment when the eyes stop on a specific point of text during the reading process. While reading, the eyes don't move smoothly across the text but instead make a series of rapid movements called saccades followed by brief pauses, or fixations. During these fixations, visual information (the text) is processed by the brain.

The technique I recommend for being able to read quickly is by widening the field of view and focusing on the middle part of the line of text³. This technique does not require the reader to focus on chunks from the left, middle, and then right, but rather to focus on the middle part and chunk the left and right sides within the field of view.

Following up on that suggestion, my publication regarding the characteristics of websites as instructional media recommends that the width of the text area on an educational website be designed to accommodate reading with a widened field of view⁴.

Benefits of Speed Reading

There are several advantages to mastering speed reading techniques, particularly in our fast-paced, information-heavy world.

1. Increased Productivity

Speed reading allows you to process larger amounts of information in a shorter period of time. This is particularly useful for professionals, students, and researchers who need to consume and digest extensive amounts of reading material efficiently. Faster reading means more time for analysis, reflection, and practical application of the material.

2. Enhanced Focus and Concentration

Because speed reading requires deliberate attention, practicing these techniques can improve overall focus and concentration. When reading at faster speeds, readers are less likely to get distracted because they are actively engaged in the task at hand. This increased focus can extend beyond reading into other areas of life, improving cognitive function and mental discipline.

3. Better Information Retention

While it may seem counterintuitive, some studies suggest that speed readers who practice consistently can actually improve their ability to retain information. Techniques like chunking and minimizing regression encourage readers to engage with the text on a deeper level, leading to better comprehension and retention.

4. More Enjoyable Reading Experience

Speed reading can make reading less tedious and more enjoyable, especially for those who find themselves overwhelmed by large volumes of text. When reading becomes faster and more fluid, it can lead to a greater sense of accomplishment and pleasure, particularly when tackling challenging or dense material.

Limitations of Speed Reading

Despite the many benefits, there are significant limitations to speed reading. Understanding these limitations is crucial for readers who want to maximize their efficiency without sacrificing comprehension.

1. Decreased Comprehension

Perhaps the most significant criticism of speed reading is that comprehension may decline as speed increases, particularly when reading complex or technical material. While chunking and other techniques help to boost speed, they may also encourage skipping over details or nuances that are important for deeper understanding.

In academic or professional contexts, where precision and thoroughness are essential, speed reading may not be appropriate for all types of content.

2. Limited Use for Dense Texts

Speed reading is most effective for lighter reading materials, such as news articles, emails, or general knowledge texts. However, when it comes to highly technical or complex texts—like legal documents, scientific papers, or philosophical works—speed reading techniques may not be as effective. These texts require more in-depth analysis, making it difficult to apply speed reading methods without losing critical information.

3. Requires Practice and Consistency

Speed reading is not an overnight skill. It requires regular practice and a long-term commitment to improving both speed and comprehension. For many people, the initial stages of learning speed reading can be frustrating, as their reading speed may initially increase while comprehension decreases.

4. Mental Fatigue

Because speed reading demands sustained focus, it can be mentally exhausting over extended periods. The intense concentration required to maintain faster speeds may lead to cognitive fatigue, especially for readers who are not accustomed to this level of mental exertion.

Wrap-up: Can Speed Reading Revolutionize the Way We Read?

The idea of reading at high speeds while maintaining comprehension is certainly appealing, particularly in our fast-paced, information-driven society. However, speed reading is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its effectiveness depends on the context in which it is used. For casual reading or quickly processing large volumes of information, speed reading techniques can be highly beneficial. However, for deep, analytical reading or studying dense material, traditional reading methods may still be the most reliable approach.

Ultimately, speed reading can be a valuable tool for enhancing productivity and focus, but it should be used strategically and supplemented with more thorough reading methods when necessary. Like any skill, speed reading requires consistent practice, patience, and an understanding of its limitations. By mastering a combination of speed reading techniques and traditional reading methods, readers can achieve a balance between efficiency and comprehension, making the most of their reading experience.

In-class Assignment 2

Train your speed reading. Measure your time.

In-class Assignment 2

1. Speed-read and comprehend my blogpost about Speed Reading
2. Recall and explain the key essential points included in that blogpost.