Easier
- There are different
styles of reading for different situations. The technique
you choose will depend on the purpose for reading. For
example, you might be reading for enjoyment, information, or
to complete a task. If you are exploring or reviewing, you
might skim a document. If you're searching for information,
you might scan for a particular word. To get detailed
information, you might use a technique such as SQ4R. You
need to adjust your reading speed and technique depending on
your purpose.
Many people consider skimming and scanning
search techniques rather than reading strategies. However when reading large
volumes of information, they may be more practical than reading. For example,
you might be searching for specific information, looking for clues, or reviewing
information.
Harder
- Web pages, novels, textbooks, manuals, magazines, newspapers, and mail are
just a few of the things that people read every day. Effective and efficient
readers learn to use many styles of reading for different purposes. Skimming,
scanning, and critical reading are different styles of reading and information
processing.
Skimming is used to quickly identify
the main ideas of a text. When you read the newspaper, you're probably not
reading it word-by-word, instead you're scanning the text. Skimming is done at a
speed three to four times faster than normal reading. People often skim when
they have lots of material to read in a limited amount of time. Use skimming
when you want to see if an article may be of interest in your research.
There are many strategies that can be used
when skimming. Some people read the first and last paragraphs using headings,
summarizes and other organizers as they move down the page or screen. You might
read the title, subtitles, subheading, and illustrations. Consider reading the
first sentence of each paragraph. This technique is useful when you're seeking
specific information rather than reading for comprehension. Skimming works well
to find dates, names, and places. It might be used to review graphs, tables, and
charts.
Scanning is a technique you often use
when looking up a word in the telephone book or dictionary. You search for key
words or ideas. In most cases, you know what you're looking for, so you're
concentrating on finding a particular answer. Scanning involves moving your eyes
quickly down the page seeking specific words and phrases. Scanning is also used
when you first find a resource to determine whether it will answer your
questions. Once you've scanned the document, you might go back and skim it.
When scanning, look for the author's use of
organizers such as numbers, letters, steps, or the words, first, second, or next.
Look for words that are bold faced, italics, or in a different font size, style,
or color. Sometimes the author will put key ideas in the margin.
Reading off a computer screen has become a
growing concern. Research shows that people have more difficulty reading off a
computer screen than off paper. Although they can read and comprehend at the
same rate as paper, skimming on the computer is much slower than on paper.
