Speed reading is one of the most powerful things you can learn to stay on top of important information. Many people succeed in learning to read faster, but are disappointed with their retention and comprehension of information. This article will explain how to absorb more information so you can use speed reading more efficiently.
If you want to absorb more information while speed reading, the single most important thing you can do is to set your goal. The famous self-realization coach, Zig Ziglar, used to say, "if you want to hit a target then you need to know what you are aiming for." Most people speed read without having a clear picture of what to target. Without having a specific target your brain will not know what to search for at high reading speed. So let's learn how to set up the specific target you need for improving your understanding.
Most people read the same way they were taught in first grade. They start by reading the first page, first paragraph, first sentence, and first word. Then they read the second word, third word, and so on. This is precisely what you do not want to do while speed reading. Speed reading is enhanced by skimming the material at very high speed prior to performing any reading. Why? Skimming provides your brain with foresight. You can see precisely what type of material you will be learning in the text so you can anticipate it. In fact, you can begin to set up file folders in your brain to receive the information. Here is how to do this.
Begin skimming your text at 2 seconds per page. Look at the big picture. What are themes or topics covered in your material? Does your text provide anything to make it easier to spot important information. Things like special fonts, formatting, tables, pictures, and charts are good examples. Examples of items used by authors to draw your attention to certain information. They use these strategies to make certain material stand apart from the main text body. To give you an awareness that this content is more important than the rest of the text.
Skimming does not provide you with in depth understanding. Properly performed it provides your brain with the information necessary to set our specific targets. Once you target information and set your goals, you will find it easier to read at very high speed with excellent comprehension. Once you try it, you will not want to return to slow reading.
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