How to avoid subvocalization when speed reading

Okay, so I’m trying to get into speed reading. I’ve read a few articles and watched some YouTube videos, and a lot of them mention subvocalization as a major speed bump. They say it’s basically "reading the words in your head" as you read them with your eyes.

The problem is, I’m pretty sure I do this all the time. I can’t seem to turn it off! I’ve tried focusing on the words as shapes instead of sounds, and I’ve tried chewing gum to "occupy" my inner voice, but nothing seems to work consistently.

So, what are some really practical techniques to stop subvocalizing when I’m trying to speed read? Are there specific exercises I can do? Maybe something to do with rhythm or pacing? Is it even possible to completely eliminate it, or should I be aiming for just reducing it? I’m really looking for actionable tips that I can start using today.

Answer

To avoid subvocalization when speed reading, which is the internal pronunciation of words while reading, several techniques can be employed that focus on suppressing the habit, increasing reading speed, and engaging different parts of the brain. The goal is to bypass the auditory processing pathway and directly comprehend the text visually.

1. Awareness and Acknowledgement:

• Recognize the Habit: The first step is to consciously identify when you are subvocalizing. Pay close attention to your inner voice as you read. Notice the subtle movements in your throat, tongue, or lips that accompany the internal pronunciation.
• Acceptance and Patience: Understand that subvocalization is a deeply ingrained habit for many readers, stemming from the way we learn to read aloud in our early years. It takes time and consistent effort to break. Do not get discouraged by initial setbacks.

2. Distraction Techniques:

• Humming or Chewing Gum: Engaging the vocal cords in a different activity can interfere with the brain’s ability to subvocalize. Try humming a simple tune, chewing gum, or even gently biting your tongue while reading.
• Counting or Repeating a Word: Similar to humming, mentally counting numbers, reciting the alphabet, or repeating a single, unrelated word (“tree,” “blue,” “one”) can disrupt the internal speech pattern. Choose a method that is not too distracting itself.
• Finger Tracking or Pacing: Using a finger or a pointer to guide your eyes across the page not only helps with focus but can also divert some mental energy away from subvocalization. This forces the eyes to move faster than the internal voice can keep up.

3. Visual Reading Techniques:

• Chunking/Grouping: Instead of reading word by word, train your eyes to take in groups of words at a glance (also known as "phrase reading"). This reduces the time spent focusing on individual words and makes it harder to pronounce each one internally. Practice expanding the size of the chunks you read.
• Eliminate Fixations: Minimize the number of times your eyes stop on a line of text. This can be achieved through practice and by consciously trying to scan the text more broadly. Aim for fewer, wider fixations.
• Use a Pacer: A physical pacer, like a finger or pen, can help guide your eyes quickly and smoothly across the page, encouraging you to take in larger chunks of text at once. This minimizes the time available for subvocalization. Using a pacer can also help eliminate re-reading words.
• Periphery Expansion: Focus on expanding your visual field to take in more information simultaneously. This involves training your peripheral vision to recognize and process words and phrases without direct focus.

4. Increasing Reading Speed:

• Timed Readings: Set a timer and gradually increase your reading speed with each session. This forces you to read faster and reduces the opportunity to subvocalize. Monitor your comprehension and adjust speed accordingly.
• Speed Reading Software/Apps: Utilize speed-reading software or apps that offer exercises and drills designed to increase reading speed and reduce subvocalization. These often incorporate techniques like RSVP (Rapid Serial Visual Presentation) and eye-tracking exercises.
• Reduce Regression: Regression is the habit of re-reading words or phrases. Consciously try to avoid going back to re-read. Use a pacer or marker to help reduce regression.

5. Comprehension Strategies:

• Focus on Key Information: Identify the main ideas, keywords, and supporting details as you read. This helps you understand the text more efficiently and reduces the need to "sound out" every word in your head.
• Skimming and Scanning: Practice skimming and scanning techniques to get a general overview of the text before reading it in detail. This helps you anticipate the content and reduces the need to subvocalize.
• Active Reading: Engage with the text by asking questions, making predictions, and summarizing key points as you read. This helps you stay focused and comprehend the material more effectively, reducing the reliance on internal pronunciation.
• Note-Taking: Taking brief notes or creating mind maps as you read can reinforce understanding and reduce the urge to subvocalize. This forces you to process the information actively and summarize it in your own words.

6. Long-Term Practice and Mindset:

• Consistency: Breaking the habit of subvocalization requires consistent practice over time. Make it a regular part of your reading routine.
• Patience and Persistence: Do not get discouraged if you find yourself subvocalizing occasionally. Be patient with yourself and keep practicing the techniques.
• Mindfulness: Pay attention to your reading process and make adjustments as needed. Be aware of what works best for you and tailor your approach accordingly.
• Gradual Progression: Increase your reading speed gradually to avoid sacrificing comprehension. Focus on maintaining a balance between speed and understanding.
• Read a Variety of Materials: Reading different types of texts can help you develop more flexible reading skills and reduce your reliance on subvocalization. Try reading materials on topics you are familiar with and those you are not.

By combining these techniques and practicing them consistently, you can gradually reduce and eventually eliminate subvocalization, allowing you to read faster and more efficiently while maintaining good comprehension.