How to learn speed reading in 10 minutes?

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the amount of text you need to read, whether for work, study or even pleasure?

If so, speed reading might just be the key to turning that mountain of words into an easy hill to climb. In just ten minutes, learn how to double or even triple your reading speed, by mastering a method that has proven effective for readers.

Understand the basics of speed reading

At the heart of speed reading is a set of techniques to use aimed at increasing your reading speed while maintaining a good understanding of the text.

Why is this essential? Because in our modern world, information is everywhere and knowing how to process it quickly is a need and an invaluable asset. Whether you are a student, an author... On average, a person reads at a speed of 200 to 300 words per minute. With speed reading, it is possible to double this average, or even more.

Why is speed reading essential?

In a world where information is abundant, the ability to read quickly and efficiently becomes a valuable skill. Whether it's to save time, improve learning, or simply enjoy more books, the speed reading method opens new doors. By mastering this skill, every minute counts and every page read becomes one step closer to a better understanding of the world.

Don't forget to insert bookmarks in the places you want to remember.

The mechanisms of speed reading

Speed ​​reading relies on eye and brain understanding. Did you know that our eyes can perceive and our brain interpret many more words than we usually read?

It is on this principle that speed reading techniques are based. By training our eyes and brains to read in blocks from left to right rather than word by word, we can significantly speed up our reading pace.

Preparing for speed reading

Before diving into speed reading techniques, it is crucial to prepare your environment and your mind. A suitable framework and a focused state of mind are the foundations of an effective practice. Take a moment to focus and prepare to apply the following steps.

Create a conducive environment

Choose a quiet, well-lit place where you will not be disturbed. A good reading environment is a key factor for optimal concentration and effective speed reading practice.

Make sure nothing will distract your attention during these precious learning minutes.

We recommend the use of a book holder to make this moment even more comfortable. Find out in our article why book holders are essential .

Getting in the right state of mind

Speed ​​reading requires special concentration. Before you begin, take a moment to get rid of distractions and focus on your goal: reading faster and understanding better. Remember that every minute you spend practicing is an investment in your ability to learn and progress faster.

Speed ​​reading techniques

Here is the heart of the subject: the specific techniques that will allow you to speed up your reading. From simple acceleration to visual scanning, each technique has its importance in the art of speed reading.

Visual scanning

Visual scanning involves sliding your eyes quickly over the text, looking for key words or main ideas. This technique is particularly useful for getting a quick overview of a text. She uses peripheral vision to spot essential information without dwelling on each word.

Word breaks

Save time by skipping less important words. Our brains are able to fill in the gaps and understand the overall meaning without each individual word. This technique allows you to quickly go through the lines by focusing only on the key words, which considerably speeds up the reading pace.

Block reading

Instead of reading word by word, practice reading groups of words, or 'blocks'. This method can significantly increase your reading speed. By practicing reading in blocks, you will get used to grasping the meaning of a passage at a glance.

Use a pen or pencil as a guide in speed reading

A simple tool like a pen or pencil can become a valuable ally in your learning to read quickly. This often overlooked technique can make it easier to speed up your reading speed while improving concentration.

Why use a pen or pencil as a guide?

Using a pen or pencil to guide your eyes as you read can help maintain a consistent reading pace. This helps reduce unnecessary jumping and darting of your eyes across the page, a normal tendency but one that significantly slows reading speed. Additionally, this method helps focus your attention on one line at a time, which can be especially helpful for speed reading beginners.

How to apply this method?

Start by holding the pen or pencil in your dominant hand. Place it below the line you are reading and gently move it from left to right as you read. This simple action encourages your eyes to follow the movement and scan the text more smoothly and quickly. It's important to find a pace that suits you and stick to it throughout the reading.

Advantages of this technique

This method can help increase your concentration and reduce eye strain. By guiding your eyes along the line, you avoid distractions and focus only on the text in front of you. Additionally, the constant movement of the pen or pencil can serve as a natural timer, prompting you not to linger too long on a single sentence or paragraph. This is a great way to measure your progress and see how your reading speed improves over time.

Practical exercises with a pen or pencil

To start, choose a simple text and start practicing by reading each line following with your pen or pencil. Time how long it takes you to read a page and try to reduce that time with each new reading. Don't forget to take notes on your progress. With practice, you will be able to read more complex passages with the same technique, while improving your speed and comprehension.

This method, combined with other speed reading techniques, can radically transform the way you read. It is particularly beneficial for students, professionals and anyone looking to optimize their reading time. By practicing regularly, you will develop a habit that will serve you in all aspects of your life, whether for work, study or the pleasure of reading.

Practical exercises to get started

Now that we have seen the techniques, it is time to move on to practice. Here are some simple exercises to get you started on your journey to speed reading.

Finger tracking exercise

Use your finger or a pointer to guide your eyes. This can help maintain a consistent reading speed and avoid rereading the same lines. It's a simple but effective way to train your eyes to follow a fast pace without going back.

Peripheral perception training

Improve your peripheral perception by trying to read the words without staring directly at them. This widens your field of vision and makes reading faster. This method applies particularly well when reading texts on the internet, where the length of the lines can vary.

Gradually increase speed

Start slowly, then gradually increase the reading speed. The goal is to find a balance between speed and understanding. Use a stopwatch to measure your progress and try to read a page in a given time, reducing the time with each new attempt.

Understand and remember

Speed ​​reading is not limited to scanning a text with your eyes. It's also about understanding and remembering what you read. Here's how to do it using effective memorization techniques.

Memorization techniques

Associate pictures, diagrams or summaries with your reading. These memorization techniques help retain key information. For example, after reading a chapter, take a moment to note the main points or to draw a small summary diagram.

Combining rapid reading and comprehension

The key is to find the right balance between speed and understanding. Remember to take breaks to think about the content read. Ask yourself questions about what you have just read and try to rephrase the main ideas in your own words.

Tools and apps for speed reading

In addition to manual techniques, many tools and applications can facilitate your learning to read quickly.

Speed ​​reading apps

Apps like 'Acceleread' or 'Speed ​​Reading Trainer' offer interactive exercises to improve your reading speed. These tools are a great way to practice learned techniques and track your progress.

Recommended books and guides

To deepen your knowledge, many books and guides are available. 'Quick Reading' by Tony Buzan is a great place to start. This title is widely recognized and recommended for those who wish to enter the world of speed reading.

Challenges and progress

Speed ​​reading is a skill that develops with time and practice. Set challenges and track your progress to stay motivated.

To fix objectives

Set realistic, measurable goals, such as reading a certain number of pages in a given time. This will give you a concrete measure of your progress and you

Evaluate your progress

Take time regularly to assess your reading speed and comprehension. This will help you adjust your learning method.

Tips for daily practice

The key to mastering speed reading is regular practice. Incorporate these techniques into your daily routine for long-lasting results.

Integrate speed reading into the daily routine

Find moments in your day to practice speed reading. Even just a few minutes a day can make a significant difference.

Speed ​​reading and leisure

Don't forget that speed reading can also be a hobby. Take the opportunity to browse more books, articles or blogs that interest you.