Overcoming Comprehension Difficulties: Strategies for Improved Reading
Have you ever felt like you just read a whole page of a book without retaining any information? Or found yourself struggling to understand complex texts even when you’re trying your best? Reading comprehension difficulties are not uncommon and can be frustrating.
Fortunately, there are strategies that can help improve your ability to comprehend what you’re reading, and we’ve rounded up the best ones below.
Preview the Text Before You Start Reading
Before diving into a text, it can be helpful to preview it first. This means taking a few moments to look over the headings, subheadings, and any images or graphics included in the text. Doing this will give you an idea of what the text is about, how it’s organized, and what you should expect to learn.
Take Notes While You Read
One way to retain information while reading is to take notes as you go. Jot down key ideas, concepts, and anything that strikes you as important or confusing. This technique can also help you stay engaged with the text and keep your mind from wandering.
Read Out Loud or Subvocalize
To improve comprehension, it can be beneficial to read out loud or subvocalize. This involves saying the words out loud or silently mouthing them as you read. Doing so can aid in processing the meaning of the text and help you stay focused.
Visualize the Text
Another way to improve comprehension is to visualize what you’re reading. This means creating mental images of the concepts and ideas presented in the text. Visualizing can help bring abstract concepts to life and make them easier to understand.
Ask Questions About the Text
Asking questions about what you’re reading can help deepen comprehension. Try to come up with questions before, during, and after you read. For instance, before you start, ask yourself what you hope to learn from the text. During and after you read, ask questions about the content and how it relates to the broader topic.
Conclusion
Reading comprehension difficulties can be frustrating, but fortunately, there are a variety of strategies that can help. Previewing the text before you start reading, taking notes, reading out loud or subvocalizing, visualizing the text, and asking questions are all effective techniques for improving comprehension. Try incorporating them into your reading routine and see how they work for you.
