Lesson 10: Measuring Progress in Speed Reading

Reassessing Reading Speed and Comprehension Over Time

To measure progress effectively, you need to test both speed and comprehension at regular intervals.

Step 1: Establish a Baseline

Before you start improving, you need to know your current speed and comprehension level. If you haven’t done this yet, follow these steps:

1. Choose a reading passage (300–500 words).
2. Time yourself for one minute and count how many words you read.
3. Answer comprehension questions (or summarize the main ideas).
4. Record your results: words per minute (wpm) and comprehension percentage.

Step 2: Reassess Every Two Weeks

To track improvement, repeat the same test every two weeks using different materials. Look for changes in:

• Words per minute (wpm)
• Comprehension percentage
• Ease of reading and focus

If your reading speed improves but comprehension drops, slow down and focus on understanding.

Step 3: Compare and Adjust

If your speed hasn’t improved significantly, ask yourself:
✅ Am I practicing consistently (at least 15–20 minutes per day)?
✅ Am I using effective techniques (reducing subvocalization, using peripheral vision, etc.)?
✅ Am I choosing the right reading materials (varied but not too difficult)?

If the answer to any of these is “No,” adjust your approach accordingly.

Tracking Improvements and Setting New Milestones

Tracking progress keeps you motivated and ensures continuous growth.

1. Keep a Progress Journal

Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or app to log your results. A simple tracking format might look like this:

Tracking in this way helps you identify trends and areas for improvement.

2. Set New Milestones

Once you see improvement, set higher but achievable goals.

Examples:

📌 “Increase speed from 300 wpm to 350 wpm in one month while maintaining 85% comprehension.”
📌 “Use scanning techniques to quickly find key information in reports within 5 minutes.”

As your skills develop, adjust your goals based on your needs, such as reading academic material faster or handling large amounts of information efficiently.

Self-Assessment Exercises

Exercise 1: Reassessing Reading Speed and Comprehension

1. Choose a 500-word article or book passage.
2. Time yourself for one minute and read naturally.
3. Record your wpm and answer three comprehension questions about the passage.
4. Compare with previous results and note any improvements or difficulties.

Assessment:

If your speed has increased but comprehension has dropped, focus on reading accuracy. If both have improved, continue practicing and set new goals.

Exercise 2: Tracking Progress Over One Month

1. Create a progress tracking sheet with dates, reading materials, wpm, and comprehension scores.
2. Test yourself once a week for four weeks, reading similar-level materials.
3. Analyze trends—what techniques improved your speed and comprehension the most?
4. Adjust your practice routine based on your results.

Assessment: If your speed and comprehension have both increased, your strategies are working! If not, revisit your techniques and make necessary adjustments.

By regularly measuring progress and setting realistic milestones, you’ll continue developing your speed reading abilities. Keep practicing, track your results, and watch your reading efficiency grow!