How do you measure your current reading speed

In this guide, you will learn how to measure your current reading speed. The ability to determine your own speed is the first step towards improving your reading habits. As a speed reading specialist, I want to show you how you can increase your reading ability with simple techniques and tools. It's important to know where you stand in order to track your progress and develop strategies for improvement.

Main Insights

To measure your reading speed, you will need a stopwatch and a book. After one minute, divide the number of words read by 60 to calculate your speed in words per minute (WPM). Additionally, use online tests to regularly track your progress. Stabilization and reading techniques, such as using a finger or pen to guide your eyes, can also help increase your speed.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparation

First, you will need a stopwatch and a book. The book should contain a passage of text that you can comfortably read. Take your time to familiarize yourself with the text before starting to measure your reading speed.

Step 2: Reading Start

Start the timer and read for exactly one minute. Focus on the reading without distractions and try to cover as much ground as possible. Time is crucial, so make sure not to cheat.

Step 3: Word Count

After the minute is up, count the number of words you have read during that time. Note down this number as it is important for calculating your reading speed.

Step 4: Calculating Your Reading Speed

To calculate your reading speed in WPM, take the number of words read and divide by 60 (the number of seconds in a minute). This calculation will give you an initial indication of your reading pace.

Step 5: Evaluating Your Speed

An experienced reader typically reads about 200 words per minute. If your result is below this value, it may be helpful to work on your reading habits deliberately.

Step 6: Using Reading Aids

A useful technique for faster reading is to use a finger, pen, or other tool to guide your eyes along the lines. This helps keep the text in focus and can increase your speed.

Step 7: Taking Online Tests

There are various online tests available for measuring reading speed. Two recommended sites are "ritterspeedreading.de" and "aceller Reader". These offer tests to help you assess your speed and track your progress.

Step 8: Using Aceller Reader

You can enter a text into Aceller Reader and set the speed at which you want to read. Experiment with different speeds to find what works best for you. This can help you train your reading ability effectively.

Step 9: Comparing with Unformatted Texts

Try reading unformatted texts as well to see how your speed compares to structured texts. This will give you a better overview of your overall reading abilities.

Step 10: Regular Practice

Regular practice is essential to improve your reading speed. Set goals and actively work on perfecting your technique. Over time, you will definitely see progress.

Summary

Measuring your reading speed is an important first step towards improving your reading habits. With a stopwatch and a book, you have the necessary tools to track and optimize your progress. Remember to incorporate regularity and technique into your exercises to achieve optimal results.