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Updated: Mar 27, 2026
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Decomposing the Variance in Reading Comprehension to Reveal the Unique and Common Effects of Language and Decoding
Published on: October 11, 2018
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So Much to Read, So Little Time: How Do We Read, and Can Speed Reading Help?
Keith Rayner1, Elizabeth R Schotter2, Michael E J Masson3
1Department of Psychology, University of California, San Diego.
Summary
Speed reading offers appeal but research indicates a trade-off between reading speed and comprehension accuracy. Improving language skills, not just speed, is key for faster reading with high understanding.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Speed reading, popularized since 1959, has seen renewed interest with new digital technologies.
- The scientific understanding of the reading process is extensive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review scientific knowledge on reading.
- To discuss implications of reading research for speed-reading training and apps.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific findings on reading.
- Analysis of the relationship between reading speed, comprehension, and language skill.
Main Results:
- A significant trade-off exists between reading speed and comprehension accuracy.
- Doubling or tripling reading speed likely compromises understanding.
- Skimming allows faster reading with moderate comprehension if deep understanding isn't required.
Conclusions:
- High comprehension and faster reading are best achieved through improved language proficiency and practice.
- Language skill is fundamental to efficient reading speed.
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