You’re Not Slow: Become a Speed Reader in 15 Minutes
Elizabeth Filips
12 min, 23 sec
The video provides a detailed tutorial on how to improve speed reading skills while maintaining comprehension.
Summary
- The speaker shares their experience of reading 200 books in a year despite a busy schedule by speed reading.
- Three key techniques are explained: training your eyes, training your brain, and training your attention.
- Peripheral vision is utilized to read faster, while comprehension is maintained through visualization.
- A comfortable reading environment and breaks are essential for effective speed reading without exhaustion.
Chapter 1
The speaker introduces their ability to speed read and the benefits it has provided.
- The speaker has read over 200 books in a year while balancing medical school and full-time work.
- Speed reading has helped save time that would otherwise be spent on less valuable content.
- The method is not recommended for literary works but for books with repetitive or filler content.
Chapter 2
The speaker outlines the three fundamental techniques for learning to speed read.
- Training your eyes involves using peripheral vision to read faster.
- Training your brain includes being comfortable with initial comprehension loss and using visualization.
- Training your attention focuses on maintaining concentration and minimizing distractions.
Chapter 3
The first part of the speed reading technique is to train your eyes using peripheral vision.
- Use a physical book with uninterrupted, ideally larger text for easier practice.
- Start by establishing a baseline reading speed to measure progress.
- Focus on the middle of the page and use peripheral vision to read words at the edges.
Chapter 4
Establishing a baseline reading speed is essential before practicing the eye training exercise.
- Estimate the number of words per page and time taken to read a few pages to find your baseline.
- Use a book you haven't read before to avoid memorization influencing your speed.
- Practice focusing on the center of the text and using peripheral vision to capture the whole line.
Chapter 5
Training the brain involves accepting reduced comprehension initially and working on visualization skills.
- Comprehension will initially decrease but can be improved with practice and visualization.
- Visualization helps in building mental images of the content, aiding in comprehension at high speeds.
- Practice reading at 70-80% comprehension and then challenge yourself to understand more.
Chapter 6
Improving comprehension while speed reading is achieved by practicing visualization of the text.
- Visualization is key to retaining information while reading at high speeds.
- Using a book not previously read, build mental images as you read the text quickly.
- Aim for high comprehension while maintaining the speed gained through peripheral vision.
Chapter 7
The final part of speed reading is to train and maintain your focus, which can be exhausting.
- Speed reading for prolonged periods is very tiring, so breaks and comfortable environments are crucial.
- Adjust brightness and text size on digital devices for easier reading.
- Listening to audiobooks while reading can help maintain focus.
Chapter 9
The speaker concludes the tutorial with recommendations and emphasizes the importance of breaks.
- Speed reading can be taxing, so it's essential to take breaks and not attempt back-to-back sessions.
- The speaker suggests a 15-minute practice can significantly increase reading speed.
- Further resources and book recommendations are provided for those interested in learning more.
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