You need to be able to read fast in this information age. Is speed reading any good?

Academic research about speed reading suggests that reading with a speed of 1000 words per minute, with a comprehension of 100%, is possible. But most of the people who claim to read between 1000-2000 words per minute have not been able to demonstrate comprehension beyond 50%.

When someone claims to be able to read at 10,000 words per minute and goes into how to extract meaning from a text using the para-conscious and subconscious that is clearly not main-stream. That is magic not speed reading - and not many people really want to be super human.

What is all the hoopla about speed reading then?

The big deal about good speed reading instruction is that it increases the rate at which the average person reads, as well as the level at which he understands. The downside about it is that after a certain point most people understand less of what they read.

Research shows that for most people, comprehension begins to decrease when reading speed exceeds 400wpm. The average person reads at 200wpm. The average person can double his reading speed without decreasing how much he understands or remembers.

Thats the average guy. What about the person who is above average? What is the fastest rate that he can read before comprehension begins to decrease? The jury is not in with this one yet. But we know enough to say that it is above 400wpm.

When logic and reasoning governs a speed reading exercise you know you have found something worth your time.

For instance, knowledge of established facts about good writing and publishing strategies will influence the way you process what you read, and will certainly help you to read faster and understand better. So will knowledge of how keywords operate to give meaning to a text.

You can find free speed reading techniques, courses, tutorials and tips online. You can even find speed reading exercises, tests and software.

Taking a speed reading tutorial that is based on established facts and practical knowledge will give anyone competitive edge in business or at school. Best of all, a person gives himself the chance to read more - just for fun.