How to improve reading ability

Step 1: Avoid unnecessary reading and catch key words

Practice catching the gist, through key words in sentences. You might question how guesswork with a few words could enhance your ability. However, it’s quite effective. If you continue, you will realize that it’s not a coincidence but that your own ability enables you to understand.

Step 2: Divide long sentences

Read in chunks of meaning, dividing sentences into meaningful chunks of information. In the book, lines change according to chunks of meaning. You are ready to move to the next level when you find yourself irritated by the changing lines. At this step, make it a habit to figure out the meaning of the sentence from the beginning to the end. If you try to understand the meaning of the sentence by reading it backwards, your reading speed will decrease. In addition, you will find listening to English difficult to follow.

Step 3: Make inferences and assumptions

Making inferences and assumptions are important skills. If you don’t know the vocabulary, try to guess the meaning of the words. Don’t go straight to the dictionary. Developing an ability to make inferences within the context is important. The first way to figure out the meaning of a word is from its context. Afterwards, check explanations or look up the vocabulary in a dictionary.

Step 4: Read a lot and many times

There is no shortcut to mastering English. Only those who do a lot of reading will make their way to the summit. Continuous exposure to English will help you improve your English ability, even though you may not quickly notice it.

Heidi happened to live with her fussy granddad in the Alps, but she is nothing but pleasant and happy.