Speed reading isn’t just a skill—it’s a transformation.
Imagine going from 200 words per minute (WPM) to a blazing 800 WPM in just 90 days. It’s not magic; it’s a combination of proven techniques, consistent practice, and the right mindset.
This step-by-step plan will guide you through your speed reading journey, helping you unlock your full potential.
Phase 1: Foundation Building (Days 1–30)
Goal: Increase your reading speed to 400 WPM while maintaining comprehension.
- Assess Your Baseline (Day 1):
- Take a speed reading test to determine your current WPM and comprehension level. Use free tools like ReadingSoft or apps like Spreeder.
- Track your progress in a journal or spreadsheet.
- Eliminate Subvocalization (Days 2–10):
- Subvocalization (silently pronouncing words in your head) is the #1 speed killer.
- Practice reading while humming or counting to distract your inner voice.
- Use a pointer (your finger or a pen) to guide your eyes and break the habit.
- Master Chunking (Days 11–20):
- Train your brain to read groups of words instead of individual words.
- Start with 2–3 word chunks and gradually increase to 4–5 words.
- Use apps like Acceleread or Spreeder to practice chunking exercises.
- Expand Peripheral Vision (Days 21–30):
- Widen your eye span to capture more words in a single glance.
- Practice by focusing on the center of a line and trying to read the words on either side without moving your eyes.
- Use tools like Spritz or RSVP apps to train your peripheral vision.
Phase 2: Skill Refinement (Days 31–60)
Goal: Reach 600 WPM while improving comprehension and retention.
- Practice Skimming and Scanning (Days 31–40):
- Skim for main ideas by focusing on headings, subheadings, and the first/last sentences of paragraphs.
- Scan for specific keywords or phrases when searching for information.
- Apply these techniques to news articles or blog posts to build confidence.
- Use Meta-Guiding (Days 41–50):
- Use your finger, a pen, or a pointer to guide your eyes and maintain a steady pace.
- Gradually increase the speed of your pointer to push your reading speed.
- Practice with easy-to-read material like fiction or magazines.
- Build Stamina (Days 51–60):
- Read for longer periods (20–30 minutes) without breaks to build focus and endurance.
- Alternate between speed reading and deep reading to balance speed and comprehension.
- Track your WPM weekly and aim for consistent improvement.
Phase 3: Mastery and Optimization (Days 61–90)
Goal: Achieve 800 WPM with strong comprehension and retention.
- Tackle Dense Material (Days 61–70):
- Apply your speed reading skills to technical books, research papers, or complex articles.
- Use annotation techniques like underlining or margin notes to reinforce comprehension.
- Break dense material into smaller sections and set time goals for each.
- Experiment with Advanced Tools (Days 71–80):
- Try speed reading apps like Spritz, ReadMe!, or Outread to push your limits.
- Use AI tools like ChatGPT to summarize complex texts and reinforce understanding.
- Explore browser extensions like Reedy or SwiftRead for online content.
- Fine-Tune Your Technique (Days 81–90):
- Focus on eliminating regression (re-reading) by trusting your comprehension.
- Practice reading in different environments (noisy, quiet, etc.) to build adaptability.
- Take a final speed reading test to measure your progress and celebrate your transformation!
Pro Tips for Success:
- Set Daily Goals: Dedicate 20–30 minutes daily to speed reading practice.
- Track Progress: Use a journal or app to monitor your WPM and comprehension improvements.
- Stay Consistent: Like any skill, speed reading requires regular practice to see results.
- Mix It Up: Alternate between easy and challenging material to keep your brain engaged.
- Celebrate Milestones: Reward yourself when you hit key targets (e.g., 400 WPM, 600 WPM).
Final Thoughts
By following this 90-day plan, you’ll not only increase your reading speed but also boost your confidence, productivity, and ability to absorb information. Remember, speed reading is a journey, not a destination. Keep practicing, stay curious, and enjoy the transformation!
Take the Challenge: Start today and see how far you can go in 90 days. Share your progress in the comments or on social media—we’d love to hear your story!