It’s been a while since the first time I heard someone talking about techniques to read fast. I took it with a grain of salt. I wonder how it’s possible to read fast and at the same time to comprehend, enjoy, and be able to recall what they have learned later on.
Jim Kwik, the author of the book Limitless, states that there are three myths around reading fast: 1. those who read fast don’t comprehend well what they read; 2. it’s harder to read fast and it takes more effort than “normal” reading; 3. Those who read fast don’t appreciate what they read (Has Jim read my mind? 😅)
According to Jim Kwik, there are three obstacles to read fast:
- Regression: when you reread what you’ve just finished reading. When you come back to read the same thing.
- Outdated skills: we learned how to read at school time, then didn’t try to improve it.
- Subvocalization: you read it silently in your mind. There’s an inner voice working similarly as you’re reading out loud.
In my case, subvocalization prevails. Somehow I feel that when I subvocalize what I’m reading, I feel like I’m learning. As an English language learner, subvocalization also helps me to find out whether or not I know the pronunciation of that word.
I agree that reading more books can boost the learning process, as you read more, you learn more (it makes sense.) Somehow, the couple of times that I tried to read fast, I felt like I was missing the point, I was missing the amusement of reading. It made me feel that I was on an endless chase to read books as the list is unlimited. Every book recommended by podcasts I listen to, books I read, friends I encounter, my to-read list grows bigger and bigger. So, why hurry? 🙂
I’ll give it a shot one more time, I’ll give myself a chance to learn faster and better. I’ll give myself time. It’s a skill like others, you must practice it to master it, and patiently wait to get used to it. I want to see for myself the benefits of it. After this trial, I’ll see whether I’ll keep reading fast or not. After all, what really matters is to learn and have fun. “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush. “
