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If you want to improve your reading, in terms of both speed and comprehension, then you should consider using speed reading software.

Speed reading software runs on your computer; the software usually works by presenting speed reading exercises that, over time, will increase your reading speed.

The different kinds of speed reading software differ in learning methods. The best speed reading software combines visual, oral, and even kinesthetic learning.

Most speed reading software includes exercises where you are presented with a sequence of words or sentences that flash on the screen. Gradually, the speed of the words or sentences increases, in order to train you to read in chunks of phrases rather than individual words or letters.

Early speed reading software was structured to present to the user only one word at a time. The word was presented on the center of the screen and the user needed to move their eyes from one direction to another — for example, from left to right as in European Latin writing.

Although the user’s reading speed increased when the text was presented on screen, the speed reading technique did not translate so well when it came time to read a book or a magazine or other standard reading material.

Another approach, found in many speed reading software, is the “object approach”. Using this approach, a word is displayed on the screen; then, the software presents an object that matches the word. Theoretically, this speed reading technique will help you to read in objects rather than words.

Another method used in speed reading software is the “highlighter”. Here, text is highlighted at a gradually increasing speed.

A newer approach uses a serial stream of text that appears at the center of the screen. This method is seen as more efficient because the brain, when confronted with text, breaks down text into “streams” before parsing the text and interpreting it.

As well as sound teaching and training methods, good speed reading software also incorporates a user-friendly interface and stimulating graphics. Speed reading software should be easy to use, with detailed help text for further information, and customizable options so that the user can create a personalized application that suits their needs.

Also, the layout of the speed reading software and especially the chromatics of the program are important; the layout and colors must be easy on the user’s eyesight and stimulate concentration.

So, if you want to improve your reading speed, we strongly recommend that you shop around for the best speed reading software.