When people learn to increase their reading speed, they will be able to read books, emails, articles, and magazines faster. However, is there a correlation between speed and comprehension? Does retention increase as speed increases? This article will attempt to answer both of these questions and explain some of the benefits of learning this skill.
To answer these questions, you need to understand the role of speed in the reading process. Research has shown that there is, in fact, a close relationship between speed and retention. Also, as speed decreases, comprehension also decreases. For many slow word-for-word readers, focus and analysis are the main culprits for slow reading. Focusing and trying to understand the meaning of each word you read will decrease comprehension.
Speed reading allows people to increase the speed at which they read and gradual increases will help you understand what you read. Understanding and remembering what you read along with an increase in reading speed will pay big dividends. Having said all this, the rate of speed and comprehension will not be the same for everyone, as the results vary depending on the method used to increase your speed.
Simply reading faster will not translate into greater comprehension. To get the full effect, the best method is to learn how to increase your reading speed correctly by completing a speed reading course. Most people who complete a speed reading course will double and often triple their reading speed. The average person reads between 200 and 400 words per minute, while the average college student reads between 350 and 500 words per minute. Imagine what you could do if those numbers doubled or even tripled. To summarize, article comprehension increases when you learn the material as fast as your mind works. This is why increasing your reading speed will increase comprehension.
