Table of content
Start of Chapter : Learn to skim read
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Learn to skim read
Skim reading is a valuable technique for overviewing, previewing, and reviewing information at both the general and specific levels. It's useful for reading structured text in which there are organizing clues and for reading unstructured text in which there are no organizing clues. In this chapter, you'll learn how to use skimming techniques in each situation so you'll be able to read both complex and simple content at a faster, more efficient rate, and at a deeper level of understanding.
Skim reading is an essential technique for you to use in both general reading and speed reading. It differs from "fluent" reading in which you read every word in an article or book with the purpose of fully understanding the information in those publications. Skimming has the purpose of allowing you to locate information in order to overview, preview or review key concepts. The benefit of skim reading is that it allows you to rapidly assess the importance of material in relation to your reading purpose and then to focus effectively on key facts, concepts, and information needed to achieve that purpose. In other words, you can learn information very quickly and efficiently and improve your learning process.
Note: Don't use skim reading alone with material you need to know in depth. In such a case, read the information carefully and at a slower rate. Use skimming before and after reading at your standard reading speed to gain a better understanding of material.
This chapter provides specific guidelines on how to use the skimming technique. The guidelines are:
Each of these guidelines defines the techniques of skim reading and provides directions on how to apply those techniques appropriately. Study each guideline closely. Then, at the end of the chapter, complete the exercises. These will help you reinforce learning of the content in this chapter.
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