Abby Marks-Beale

Book Summary: 10 Days to Faster Reading by Abby Marks-Beale

Overview:

10 Days to Faster Reading, written by Abby Marks-Beale, is a practical guide aimed at helping individuals improve their reading speed and comprehension. The book offers a systematic approach divided into ten daily lessons, providing readers with the necessary tools and techniques to read more efficiently. Marks-Beale, a renowned speed-reading expert, emphasizes the importance of eliminating poor reading habits and adopting new strategies to enhance reading skills.

Key Points / Ideas:

1. Identifying and Breaking Poor Reading Habits:

Marks-Beale begins by helping readers identify and eliminate poor reading habits that hinder their speed and comprehension. This includes sub-vocalization, the habit of pronouncing words silently in one's head while reading. By raising awareness of these habits, readers can consciously work towards breaking them to read faster and more efficiently.

2. Pre-Reading Techniques:

The author introduces various pre-reading techniques designed to improve focus and concentration. These techniques involve skimming, scanning, and previewing texts before diving into the details. By setting reading goals and previewing the structure and content of the text, readers can enhance their reading speed and comprehension.

3. Reading Strategies and Speed Techniques:

Marks-Beale presents a range of reading strategies and speed techniques to increase reading speed while maintaining comprehension. These include using a pointer or finger to guide reading, reading in thought groups, and using peripheral vision to cover more words at once. These techniques are supported by exercises and drills that gradually help readers apply these strategies effectively.

4. Vocabulary Expansion:

The book also addresses the importance of vocabulary development and offers practical tips for expanding one's vocabulary. By learning new words and actively using them in daily conversations, readers can enhance their understanding of texts and improve their reading speed.

Significant Evidence and Examples:

Throughout the book, Marks-Beale provides evidence and examples to support her arguments and techniques. She includes case studies of individuals who have successfully applied the strategies outlined in the book, sharing their experiences and results. Additionally, she offers exercises and drills for readers to practice and reinforce the concepts discussed, allowing them to witness their progress firsthand.

Conclusion:

10 Days to Faster Reading is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their reading skills. Abby Marks-Beale provides clear instructions and exercises that gradually build reading speed and comprehension. By identifying and eliminating poor reading habits, adopting pre-reading techniques, and implementing speed techniques, readers can significantly enhance their reading experience. The book is filled with practical advice and supported by evidence and examples, making it a reliable guide to boost reading efficiency. Readers interested in further exploring the topic may also find books like "The Speed Reading Book" by Tony Buzan and "The Evelyn Wood Seven-Day Speed Reading and Learning Program" by Stanley D. Frank helpful in further developing their speed reading abilities.