Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 31, 2026

Decomposing the Variance in Reading Comprehension to Reveal the Unique and Common Effects of Language and Decoding
Published on: October 11, 2018
Predictability effects during reading comprehension are not modulated by a visuospatial working memory load
1Department of English, Linguistics and Theatre Studies, National University of Singapore, Block AS5, 7 Arts Link, Singapore, 117570, Singapore. aine.ito@nus.edu.sg.
Abstract:
Predictable words are processed more quickly than unpredictable words during reading, but how this predictability effect is modulated by working memory (WM) limitations is unclear. Two preregistered experiments tested whether the availability of visuospatial WM resources affects reading measures that are sensitive to predictability (gaze duration and skipping probability in Experiment 1, and self-paced reading time in Experiment 2) in native English speakers. The analyses of all measures revealed main effects of predictability and WM load. Their interaction was significant in Experiment 2 but not in Experiment 1. A follow-up analysis on relative reading times in Experiment 2 revealed main effects of predictability and WM load but no interaction between the two, replicating Experiment 1. The apparent interaction in Experiment 2 was likely due to the WM load speeding the overall reading times and masking the predictability effect. Taken together, these findings demonstrate a robust effect of predictability under a cognitively demanding task and suggest that visuospatial WM resources are not necessary for computing probabilities of upcoming words during reading.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Uncertainty in Measurement: Reading Instruments
Predicting Molecular Geometry
System of Memory
Working Memory
Prediction Intervals
However, the point estimate is most likely not the exact value of the population parameter, but close to it. After calculating point estimates, we construct interval estimates, called confidence intervals or prediction intervals. This prediction interval comprises a range of values unlike the point estimate and is a better predictor of the observed sample value, y.
Long-Term Memory
Long-term memory can be categorized into two primary types: explicit and implicit memory. Explicit memory, also known as declarative memory, involves the conscious recollection of information that we deliberately try to remember, recall, and articulate. This type of memory encompasses specific facts, events, and...

