Mastering Subvocalization: A Crucial Step towards Expert Speed Reading
Understanding Subvocalization
Subvocalization is the habit of pronouncing words in your mind while reading. This habit, largely developed during the process of learning to read, may occur in two predominant forms. The first is a physical subvocalization where your tongue, lips, or throat may subtly move. The second is mental or silent subvocalization, happening entirely within the confines of your mind. In both instances, the time spent on each word can drastically reduce reading speed and limit your reading efficiency.
In a study conducted by Rayner in 1995, it was found that trained speed-readers were able to read with 67% comprehension at 700 words per minute, nearly three times the average reading speed of 250 words per minute. One key component to achieving this speed was the reduction of subvocalization.
The Role of Subvocalization in Limiting Reading Speed
Subvocalization plays a role akin to a speed breaker when it comes to reading. It is believed to limit our reading speed to the same pace we talk, significantly slower than the speed at which our brain can process information. To put it into perspective, subvocalization can reduce your reading speed to a sluggish 150-250 words per minute, much less than the brain’s ability to comprehend at a speed of 1000 words per minute.
Techniques to Reduce Subvocalization – A Step-by-Step Guide
- Chunking: Chunking involves grouping words together and reading them in sets rather than individually. This technique helps reduce the amount of time your brain uses to process information. This change can result in significant boosting to your reading speed.
- Minimizing Eye Movement: To further prevent the habit of subvocalization, it’s helpful to minimize eye movement. Try to refrain from involuntarily returning to previous words, causing regression. Enhancing your peripheral vision can help in focusing on larger chunks of words and keeping your eyes moving forward.
- Use a Pointer (Pacer technique): Using a finger or a pointer as a guide can control your eye movements and help you focus better on the current word idea, thus suppressing the tendency to subvocalize.
- Speed training: Using an electronic guide or speed reading software, steadily increase your reading speed over time. This develops an urgency in your brain to keep up, inevitably decreasing the instances of subvocalization.
Case Study: Significant Impact of Reduced Subvocalization
In a study by the Florida State University, it was observed that a group of students who underwent an 8-week speed reading program showed drastic improvements in their reading speed. The average reading speed was improved by over 80%, with some students achieving speeds over three times their baseline. One of the critical factors driving these results was a reduction in subvocalization-named as a key aspect of the speed reading regimen utilized.
Do We Need Subvocalization at all?
A total eradication of subvocalization might not be desirable. According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Memory and Language, subvocalization can play a crucial role in understanding complex texts, recalling information, and developing in-depth comprehension. However, learning to control subvocalization and use it effectively can certainly enhance your reading speed and overall understanding.
Conclusion: The Road to Mastering Subvocalization
Mastering subvocalization is a crucial step toward becoming an expert speed reader. By acknowledging its impact and implementing techniques to reduce it, one can increase reading speed while maintaining comprehension levels. While the complete elimination of subvocalization may not be necessary or even beneficial, the key lies in finding a balance. Whether it be chunking words, controlling eye movements, following the pacer technique, or undergoing speed training, there are a variety of strategies to effectively suppress subvocalization and boost reading performance.
The next steps are simple – acknowledge the role of subvocalization, identify your current level of subvocalization, and adopt effective strategies to reduce it to a desirable level. Speed reading, improved comprehension, and a more efficient consumption of written information await you on the other side of mastering subvocalization.
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