Reading is more than just looking at words on a page — it’s about understanding, analyzing, and enjoying what you read. Whether you’re reading a novel, an article, or preparing for an English exam, improving your reading skills can make a huge difference in your comprehension and confidence.
In this article, we’ll explore effective techniques to help you become a faster, smarter, and more engaged reader.
1. Start With a Purpose
Before you begin reading, ask yourself why you are reading the text.
Are you looking for information? Are you reading for pleasure, or to answer questions on an exam?
When you have a clear purpose, your mind becomes focused and selective, helping you understand and remember the most relevant details.
Tip: If you’re studying, write your reading goal at the top of the page (for example: “Understand the causes of climate change”).
2. Preview the Text Before Reading
A great way to improve comprehension is to skim through the text first.
Look at:
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Titles and subheadings
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The first and last paragraph
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Keywords in bold or italics
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Any images or graphs
This gives you an overview of the main ideas and helps your brain prepare for what’s coming next.
3. Improve Your Vocabulary
Vocabulary plays a vital role in reading comprehension. When you understand more words, you understand more ideas.
How to improve your vocabulary:
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Keep a small notebook for new words.
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Learn 5–10 new words daily.
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Review and use them in sentences.
Example:
If you read the sentence, “The rain subsided after an hour,” and you don’t know “subsided,” look it up — it means “to become less intense.”
4. Use the SQ3R Technique
One of the most effective reading strategies is SQ3R, which stands for:
Survey – Question – Read – Recite – Review.
Here’s how it works:
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Survey the text: Skim it quickly to get the main idea.
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Question: Ask questions like “What is the author trying to say?”
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Read: Read actively, looking for answers.
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Recite: Summarize what you read in your own words.
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Review: Go over the key points to reinforce memory.
This method turns passive reading into an active learning experience.
5. Read Regularly and Diversify Your Material
The more you read, the better you get. But don’t limit yourself to one type of text.
Try reading:
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News articles
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Short stories and novels
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Essays or opinion pieces
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English learning blogs (like Wakune!)
Reading a variety of materials exposes you to different writing styles, tones, and vocabulary.
6. Take Notes While You Read
Writing notes helps you remember and process information more effectively.
You can:
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Highlight key ideas
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Write short summaries
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Create mind maps for complex topics
Pro tip: Use color codes — one color for main ideas, another for examples or vocabulary.
7. Practice Reading Aloud
Reading aloud improves pronunciation, fluency, and focus.
It also helps you hear the rhythm and emotion of English, which is important in literature and speaking exams.
Start with short paragraphs and record yourself to track progress.
8. Discuss What You Read
Sharing what you read with friends or classmates deepens understanding.
You can:
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Join a reading club
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Comment on book forums
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Summarize a story and share your opinion
When you discuss, you transform passive reading into active learning.
9. Set Reading Goals
Setting goals keeps you motivated. For example:
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Read one chapter a day.
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Finish one English article every morning.
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Learn five new words per reading session.
Even small goals lead to big improvements over time.
10. Be Patient and Enjoy the Process
Improving reading skills doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient, stay consistent, and enjoy what you read. The more pleasure you find in reading, the faster your progress will be.
Conclusion
Reading is a lifelong skill that strengthens your language, imagination, and critical thinking. By using techniques like previewing, vocabulary building, note-taking, and active reading, you’ll notice a big improvement in your comprehension and speed.
Remember — reading isn’t just about understanding words; it’s about connecting with ideas. So open your next book or article and let your curiosity guide you!
FAQs
1. How can I increase my reading speed without losing comprehension?
Practice skimming for main ideas first, then focus on details during a second read.
2. What should I do if I don’t understand a paragraph?
Reread it slowly, look up key words, and try to summarize it in your own words.
3. How much should I read daily to improve?
Just 15–30 minutes of focused reading a day can make a noticeable difference.
4. Are audiobooks helpful for reading skills?
Yes, they improve listening comprehension and vocabulary — especially when you follow along with the text.
5. What are the best books for English learners?
Start with graded readers or simple novels like The Little Prince or Charlotte’s Web to build confidence.