Cracking Competitive Exams: Boosting Your Reading Speed for Excellence in RC
In the competitive world of exams like the Common Admission Test (CAT), time is a precious commodity. Reading speed plays a crucial role in determining your success in both reading comprehension (RC) sections and other segments of the exam. Understanding the relationship between reading speed and comprehension can help you achieve your goals without compromising on the quality of your understanding.
Understanding the Relationship Between Reading Speed and Comprehension
Contrary to popular belief, there is a direct relationship between the time spent reading and the comprehension level achieved. Attempting to significantly increase your reading speed without proper practice is futile. For instance, reaching a reading speed of 500 words per minute (WPM) from a base of 150 WPM in just 6 to 8 months without compromising comprehension is highly improbable. It would require years of dedicated practice for that heightened speed and understanding.
Setting Realistic Goals for CAT
The Common Admission Test (CAT) demands a balanced approach. While a high reading speed is desirable, achieving a reading speed of 250 to 300 WPM with reasonable comprehension would suffice for most aspirants. Understanding this balance will help you focus on practical strategies for success.
Practical Tips to Increase Reading Speed without Sacrificing Comprehension
The key to improving reading speed lies in consistent practice and the adoption of effective reading techniques. Here are five proven strategies:
1. Skim and Scan
One effective method is to skip the passage completely in the initial read. Instead, head straight to the questions. For data-based questions, quickly scan the passage for key phrases, which will help you locate the relevant information swiftly. This can save a significant amount of time that can be used to tackle other sections of the exam like quantitative reasoning and data interpretation (DI).
2. The Poriborton (Parivarthan) Method
The Poriborton method involves looking for words that indicate a change in thought process, such as "hence," "meanwhile," "even though," and "unlike." These signal shifts in the passage and help you understand contradictory points. This method can provide you with enough context to fill in the answer options, thereby enhancing your RC answering skills.
3. Finger Tracing or Pen Tracing
Tracing the passage with a finger or a pen can help maintain focus and avoid the tendency to read across lines. This technique ensures that your eyes remain fixed on the line of text you are reading, enhancing comprehension. Avoiding these distractions will lead to better reading retention and understanding.
4. Increasing Eye Span
Eye span refers to the maximum number of words that can be read in a single glance. For CAT aspirants, this needs to be at least 450 to 500 WPM. Techniques like finger tracing and reading by enunciating can help in developing this skill. Increased eye span will allow you to read more quickly without compromising comprehension.
5. Cultivating a Reading Habit
Reading extensively not only enhances your vocabulary but also familiarizes you with various genres and terminologies. Reading books on literature, arts, history, science, technology, and philosophy can help you build a robust comprehension base. As a result, you will be better prepared to tackle the diverse passages in the RC section.
Conclusion: The Key to Success
Boosting your reading speed is essential for excelling in competitive exams like the CAT. However, this should be done with the understanding that comprehension is equally important. By adopting the right strategies and maintaining a balanced approach, you can achieve your desired reading speed and enhance your overall performance in the exam.
Remember, steady practice and patience are the keys to success. Repeat the mantra: Practice, Practice, and Practice. Utilize resources like Byju’s app to maximize your mock test attempts, ensuring you receive detailed solutions and mentor support to help you crack the CAT exam. With these tips, you can confidently navigate the challenges of the RC section and secure your place in top management institutes.