“I took a speed–reading course and read War and Peace in twenty minutes. It involves Russia.” –Woody Allen
It has been over 14 years since I came across the concept called “Speed Reading”.
It was around that time, I realized that I love reading books and was reading books regularly.
I was reading a book every 15-20 days. I realized with proper training and the right techniques, I can easily finish a book in a week or even in a day.
I decided to master speed reading.
Since then, I have read every book I came across on Speed reading and Accelerated learning.
Some books were brilliant and they shaped me how I approach and read books.
Recently a student from my Online Course asked me this Question:
What is your definition of Speed Reading?
It’s an interesting question and I believe everyone will benefit from the answer. Many people have a wrong misconception that if you read faster, you won’t understand much.
Here is how I look at speed reading and this is my definition:
Speed reading is an ability to read at yourmaximum possible speed without compromising comprehension/ understanding.It is an ability to customize your reading speed according to your purpose and the type of book you are reading.
Do we compromise on Understanding while speed reading?
No. We don’t compromise understanding while speed reading.
Here is what I believe, speed reading without understanding anything is as good as not reading.
In fact, I give more importance to understanding.
What Speed Reading is not?
Speed Reading is not just about reading faster and ignoring comprehension. While speed reading, you give equal importance to your reading speed and comprehension. Sometimes, you give more importance to comprehension.
I never ask my students to read faster than their comfortable reading speed. With training and right mindset, you increase your comfortable reading speed and thus increasing your reading speed.
Summary
With the right techniques and strategies, you can train yourself to read faster with better understanding.
I have written a few blog posts on this topic and they will help you improve your reading speed. You can check out my blog at www.srinivasvakati.com/start-here
I have also designed an online course – “Finish Reading books” which will guide you how to read books way faster and get maximum benefit from it.
You can check my online course at www.srinivasvakati.com/frb
Happy Reading
Srinivas Vakati
P.S. FAQs
On the below-mentioned page, I have listed down all the FAQs I am asked about Speed reading, learning fast etc and my responses to the same.
Click here to see all the FAQs and my responses
Become an expert learner Online course
In my flagship course – Become an expert learner, I share with you all the strategies and systems to help you triple your reading speed, read book a week, make effective notes and remember what you read.
