Can I increase my reading speed realistically (from ~180 wpm to 500 wpm) without compromising comprehension AT ALL?

Answer 1

A simple answer to this question is:

Not at first, but with a little practice, yes.

If you read at 180 wpm, using speed reading strategies can improve your speed quickly - perhaps even higher than 500 wpm. Comprehension temporarily drops until your eyes and brain get used to the faster reading rate. Think of it this way. If you want to get faster at a video game (like Tetris), sometimes it pays off to try a higher level than you are used to. You lose often and quickly at first, but as you get used to the faster pace and are forced to think faster, your ability to play the game well improves again. If you then go back to the easier level you were used to playing, the game now seems really slow and too easy. This is the same idea in practicing speed reading.

I wouldn't recommend practicing speed reading on material for a class. You need to adjust your reading rate to the purpose, so reading information that you need to study should be a bit slower and intentional. Practice speed reading on some type of pleasure reading so the stakes are less since you know that it will take a few days to get used to the faster rate. It's worth the time and effort!

Answer 2

Reading properly for comprehension is a skill not just a task. Adopting a few simple techniques can dramatically improve your reading speed and comprehension.

To begin you must accept the fact that the way the majority of us were taught to read is not correct. Typically individuals will track with their eyes while moving from word to word. Not only is this slow it is also not the best method for comprehension.

In order to greatly improve your speed and comprehension you should place the fingers of your dominant hand directly under the line of text where you will begin reading. Now move your hand to the right at a speed that permits you to see the word in its context. You are viewing each the line of words above your fingers as your eyes move over them.

This method takes some practice because it is the exact opposite of how we were taught. But if you try it out and practice this revolutionary method of reading you will be shocked with the results.

Remember to time yourself periodically while reading a passage and your ability to answer open ended questions about the material.

Good luck.