How to Read Faster in English
If you get frustrated or bored when you try to read a book because you read slower in English than in your native language, these 6 tips are for you:
1. Pick a Genre You Like
First, think about what genres you like to read (or what movies you like to watch) in your native language: fiction, non-fiction, mystery, action, romance, science fiction (sci-fi), etc.
Don’t worry about what other say you should read. The best way to stick with a new habit is to make it fun. Starting with topics and stories that genuinely interest you is the most effective choice.
2. Read Summaries and Reviews
Take your time picking the right book. Read book summaries and check out the reviews (goodreads.com is a great resource).
If the summary doesn't interest you, the book probably won't either. Other people’s reviews can give you more insight as to whether the book is right for you.
3. Preview the Book Before You Buy It
Search "[Title of the Book] Chapter 1 PDF" so you can try reading the first chapter of the book you think you want (Amazon usually lets you preview the first few pages for free).
Read a few paragraphs, and if it's too difficult or too boring, look for another book. Don't force yourself to read something you don't like.
It's ok if this takes some time to do. The more time you invest in the book selection process, the higher the chances are that you will pick a book that you will actually enjoy reading.
4. Get the Book AND the Audiobook
The audiobook is the game-changer! It helps makes your reading experience more fluid and fun. Reading in a different language can be frustrating because it's slower and takes more mental energy.
Having the audiobook solves both of those problems which makes your reading experience more positive.
As a bonus, listening to the audiobook while you read helps you improve your pace and learn the pronunciation of new words. You'll not only improve your reading skills, you'll also improve your listening and pronunciation skills.
Pro Tip: Make sure you buy the "Unabridged Audio" so it's the same version as the book.
5. Stop Looking Up Words You Don’t Know
This tip shocks most people, but hear me out. If you're watching a movie and pause it every few minutes, wouldn't that be annoying? It would also make it harder to enjoy and understand the plot.
Stop interrupting your reading process and remember that reading isn't homework anymore. Relax and trust that your brain is learning through context. Try to focus on the bigger picture instead of worrying about individual words.
This will help you get used to understanding words by using context clues. It also helps you enjoy the story without constant interruptions.
If you absolutely must highlight and look up words you don't know, only do it if it’s a word that is repeated a lot, which means it’s probably an important part of the story.
6. Join a Book Club
Look for book clubs in your city, online, or create a book club with your friends.
Discussing books you read with others is a great way to improve your reading comprehension and conversation skills.
Bonus: Read Books in a Series
I recommend picking a book that is part of a series, or by an author who has written several books.
This way, if you like the author's writing style or end up liking the main characters, you'll have more to read after you finish the first book.
Here are some of my personal favorite books:
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling (fantasy)
Robert Langdon Series by Dan Brown (murder mystery)
Miss Fortune Series by Jana Deleon (humorous mystery)
In Death Series by J.D. Robb (detective mystery)
Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich (humorous mystery)
The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins (dystopian)
The Southern Vampire (True Blood) Series by Charlaine Harris (vampire)
The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis (fantasy)
Divergent Series by Veronica Roth (dystopian)
Alphabet Series by Sue Grafton (detective mystery)
These tips will help you enjoy reading and incorporate English into your daily life in a way that doesn’t feel like homework.
If you’re not having fun, it’s time to look for new resources! This is the beginning of becoming a life-long reader.
If you haven’t already, sign up for our Leadership Book Club here.
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