Increase your reading speed in a month for CAT 2021

Dear CAT aspirants,

As you’re aware, ‘Reading Comprehension’ is one of the scoring sections of the CAT exam and it takes up to 40-50% of the VA section.

Therefore, it is crucial that you have a good reading speed, to save you time during the exam. To help you score better in your exam, we are providing a 4-week plan to increase your reading speed. Have a dekko:

Week 1 

Read in your mind:

To start with, skim through the text you’re going to read, before you start reading. This will you give you a brief idea of what’s interesting and important to you. Scan the index to go through the contents and skip reading the unwanted or insignificant parts of the text and start reading and read in your mind. Do not utter the text.

Avoid sub-vocalization: 

Sub-vocalization refers to the speaking of words in the mind while reading. Doing so affects the reading speed and slows it down. To avoid doing this, try listening to some soothing background music without vocals to help you concentrate better. Getting rid of sub-vocalization is a slow and time taking process, so be patient and consistent with your practice to master it. 

Read basic text:

During week 1, read easy-to-read text which doesn’t have too many complicated words or structure. Read text which you’re most comfortable with like easy-to-read novels or magazines or online articles.

Week 2

Club words:

Another way of avoiding sub-vocalization and increasing reading speed is by clubbing 2-3 words and reading them together. When you read each word in a text, it takes time, clubbing 2-3 words drastically increases your speed. One way of doing this by using a pointer.

Use pointer to regulate reading speed:

 Speed reading isn’t just about reading fast, it’s about being in control of your reading. Increasing and decreasing your speed whenever and wherever necessary. To do so, you can use a pointer (ideally a finger or a pencil/pen) while reading. This will help your eyes get acquainted to the pointer and you can regulate your speed using the pointer.

Read advanced articles:

During week 2, get out of your comfort zone and start reading advanced articles. Read newspaper articles from The Economic Times, The Hindu or magazines like India Today.

Wee 3 & 4 

Time your reading:

No that you’re comfortable reading basic and advanced text, it’s time to test your timing. Time your reading and see where you’re taking too much time. Try reading faster using pointers and avoiding sub-vocalization.

Read most advanced and challenging text:

 During week 3 & 4 pick up the most advanced and challenging text to read. Essentially text with complicated structure and complicated words and apply all the techniques you learnt during week 1 and 2. Read in a good and comfortable environment and be consistent in your reading and practice regularly. Give 3-4 hours to reading during week 1, 2-3 hours during week 2 and 1-2 hours during weeks 3 & 4.

Happy Learning!