Skimming and scanning

Skimming and Scanning: Effective Reading Strategies

Skimming and scanning are two reading techniques that can help you quickly find the information you need in a text.

Skimming

Skimming involves quickly reading through a text to get a general idea of its content. It is useful when you want to identify the main topic or get a sense of the overall structure of a text.

How to skim:

• Read the title and headings: This will give you a general idea of the topic.
• Read the first and last paragraphs: The introduction and conclusion often summarize the main points of the text.
• Look for keywords: Identify keywords that are repeated throughout the text.
• Skip details: Don’t get bogged down in details that are not relevant to your purpose.

Scanning

Scanning involves quickly searching for specific information in a text. It is useful when you know what you are looking for and you want to find it as quickly as possible.

How to scan:

• Identify keywords: Determine the keywords related to the information you are looking for.
• Scan the text: Quickly read through the text, looking for the keywords you identified.
• Stop when you find the information: Once you find the relevant information, stop and read it carefully.

When to use skimming and scanning:

• Skimming: When you want to get a general overview of a text, or when you are trying to decide if a text is relevant to your needs.
• Scanning: When you are looking for specific information, such as a date, a name, or a definition.

By using skimming and scanning effectively, you can save time and improve your reading comprehension.

Would you like to practice skimming and scanning with a text?