Speed Reading Memorization
Effective Speed Reading Memorization Techniques
By James McNair
Speed reading memorization techniques range from simple improvement in comprehension to powerful photographic memory. Some people want to know how to speed read while others need to learn speed reading. Both cases provide the motivation we need to learn how to speed read. Whilst this is a fantastic skill to achieve, it is no good if we cannot remember anything. Therefore, it is important to understand how to speed read as well as to apply speed reading memorization techniques.
Generally speaking, speed reading will always improve your memory skills. This due to the fact that along with the speed comes a higher level of comprehension. When we understand how something works or the concepts behind a topic, it is always far easier to remember. When trying to memorize information, we do not try to remember the whole sentence, word-for-word, as it is written. We want to memorize only the key facts throughout the work and discard all the unnecessary information. This virtually mimics the way a speed reader will handle a reading task. He will not read word-for-word, but rather large blocks of information. While reading, he will focus more attention on the key aspects of the writing. When reading larger blocks of information instead of every word, our brain is quicker to understand and process the information, therefore committing it to memory more easily.
There are certain ways to enhance memorization during speed reading. With practice, visualization should become part of your reading process. You may wonder why one should visualize. The answer is that your brain works in pictures rather than in words. Visualization is the basic component of all brilliant memorization techniques. While the techniques may vary, they will all require some visualization. It is extremely powerful because the brain does not distinguish between an imagined visualization and a real visualization. We remember things far easier if we have seen it happen. We can just as easily imagine it happening to have the same powerful effect. Whilst reading, practice creating strong mental images relating to the writing. This may be a slow process at first, as visualization utilizes a part of the brain that we seldom use in adulthood. When you are finished reading, think of what you have just read and you will be surprised at how quickly and accurately the brain will bring up the same images again. This speed memorization technique will enhance long term memory, enabling you to 're-call' the images whenever they are required and, in turn, remember the information.
Association is also an important factor in memorization processes. Information is always remembered well if it is associated with something we already know, understand and are familiar with. Association is often achieved with set, already established lists of simple items that are easy to commit to memory. Once the list is established in our memory, facts to remember will be linked to the items on the list by making use of visualization techniques. Information memorized in this way can be remembered for months and even years without any difficulty.
A less common ability is photo reading. Photo readers claim to read faster than 25 000 words per minute and yet still maintain comprehension. For this process, the photo reader apparently uses his unconscious mind to absorb thousand times more information than would be possible with the conscious mind. This information is not automatically available. A later step is required - called 'activation'. There is much skepticism to whether photo reading is actually possible, but if it was, what a super speed reading memorization technique it would be!
When learning speed reading memorization techniques, remember that practice makes perfect. We suggest this speed reading test, which is free, and will tell you just how fast you're reading a particular passage. All techniques take a little time to master, but once perfected, you will have valuable skills to ensure you are a cut above the rest!