One activity most speed reading courses will ask you to do is to test your current reading speed. Doing those tests can be a hassle; at least I didn’t like them. After running the test, I knew I was an average reader with average comprehension and average bad reading habits. Since then I haven’t done a second test, but I don’t mind at all. Trust in my reading skills is more important than words per minute. So, is a speed reading test worth its time?
Running a test to determine how fast you read is actually a good starting point to increase reading speeds. You will know how many words you read per minute and how much information you could gather at this speed.
Reading tests will put you into a category to let you know you are either a slow, average or good reader. Being labeled as slow or average can be frustrating, though most readers are average ones by the way, achieving speeds of roughly about 250-300 words per minute. The benefit is you know where you are and which areas to improve on.
But, at this stage the twist starts. It’s too easy to keep focusing on numbers and speed rates, and ignore intuition. I therefore wouldn’t take speed reading tests too seriously. Testing may be good for evaluation, but it’s less important for improving reading skills. Trust in your abilities is.
The word speed is a bit misleading. Certainly, to read faster is a priority goal, but so is a high comprehension. Block out the word ‘speed’ of common phrases to see what’s left; e.g. ‘reading strategies’ or ‘reading techniques’. Speed automatically comes by mastering those techniques, e.g. previewing, hand pacing or word group reading. Practice and apply them daily and you will soon gain confidence in them.
Speed reading tests only provide information on average reading speeds, hence its results don’t apply to all kind of texts. I read entertaining content much faster than one with a more scientific based background. Latter one can slow you down to as little as 150-200 words per minute to maintain comprehension.
And though reading speeds of 1000 words per minute are achievable, it simply would be a number to hunt for. A more interesting skill in speed reading is learning to visualize material, which will also increase reading speeds. Once you’ve mastered this skill, words per minute or reading tests aren’t important anymore. You simply know that you read fast.
Keep in mind that online tests may deliver slower results than testing with books or prints. Hand pacing, reading chunks of words or previewing methods simply work less efficient here. Using books or print outs allow you to use tactile senses too. It’s easier to flip through a book or use your fingers to adjust your focus stops.
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I have to agree. An initial test is a good idea just to set a benchmark for your skills. But stressing over the results might actually hinder your progress.
Yeah, no one really likes tests. I remember that I’ve done a few tests then and now, but usually forget about it. I believe it’s better to know you read fast or comprehend better with the right techniques than knowing your exact reading speed.