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Why Speed Reading Matters and How to Get Started

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Do you ever feel like there’s just too much to read and not enough time? Whether it’s books, articles, or reports, the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming. That’s where speed reading comes in. It’s not about skimming or sacrificing comprehension—it’s about reading smarter, not harder.

In this article, we will explore why speed reading is a valuable skill and how you can get started.

Why Speed Reading?

  • Save Time: Read more in less time.
  • Boost Comprehension: Focus on key ideas and retain more information.
  • Stay Focused: Reduce distractions and mind-wandering.

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start speed reading, it’s important to set up the right environment. Here’s how:

  1. Create a Distraction-Free Zone: Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can focus.
  2. Gather Your Tools:
    • A practice book (choose something you’re familiar with but don’t mind marking up).
    • A pencil (for pointing and taking notes).
    • A ruler (to guide your eyes).
    • A watch (to time yourself).
  3. Prepare Your Practice Book:
    • Loosen the binding so pages turn easily.
    • Calculate the average number of words per line and page (this will help you track your progress).

Exercise 1: Calculate Your Baseline

  1. Open your practice book to a random page.
  2. Count the number of words in 10 full lines and divide by 10 to find the average words per line.
  3. Count the number of lines on a full page and multiply by the average words per line to find the average words per page.
  4. Time yourself as you read 2 pages at your normal pace. Use this formula to calculate your reading speed:
    Reading Speed (words per minute) = Total Words ÷ Time (in minutes).

How to Eliminate Regression and Improve Focus

Have you ever caught yourself re-reading the same sentence over and over? This habit, known as regression, is one of the biggest obstacles to reading faster. In this article, we’ll show you how to eliminate regression and improve your focus using simple techniques from the Speed Reading Workbook.

A unique picture of a futuristic speed reading machine. The machine has a large screen and multiple smaller screens. There's a person sitting in front of the machine, reading. The background contains plants and a window. A green light is shining on the person from the machine.

What is Regression?

Regression happens when your eyes jump back to previous words or lines, often because you lose focus or doubt your comprehension. It’s a major speed killer, but the good news is, it’s easy to fix.

Step 2: Using a Pointer

One of the simplest ways to eliminate regression is by using a pointer to guide your eyes. Here’s how:

  1. Pencil Pointer: Use the eraser end of a pencil to glide smoothly under each line as you read.
  2. Hand Pointer: Use your finger to guide your eyes. Place your middle finger under the word you’re reading and move it steadily across the line.

Exercise 2: Pointer Practice

  1. Open your practice book to a new page.
  2. Use a pencil or your finger as a pointer and read 3 pages at your normal pace.
  3. Focus on moving the pointer smoothly and avoid going back to re-read.
  4. Time yourself and calculate your reading speed. Compare it to your baseline from Article 1.

Bonus Tip: Fast Returns

When you reach the end of a line, quickly move your pointer to the start of the next line. This minimizes the time spent not reading and keeps your momentum going.

What’s Next?

Now that you’ve mastered the pointer technique, it’s time to take your reading to the next level. In the next article, we’ll explore how to read groups of words instead of individual words, a key skill for speed reading.

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