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?
