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Speed read research papers
How to speed read research papers
Start at 250 words a minute. A paper is not written to be read front to back. Abstract, figures and conclusion carry most of it.
The method, in four steps
Read the abstract and conclusion at normal speed.
Look at every figure and table full-screen before the text.
Run the introduction and discussion at 350 to 450.
Read the methods slowly, and only if the result matters to you.
The mistake to avoid
Flashing equations and tables as if they were sentences. They need to sit still.
See the pace first
Not sure what 250 words a minute looks like? Take the 250 wpm test, or measure your own speed and start 50 above it.
Questions
How fast should I read research papers?
Start at 250 words a minute and adjust by the quiz: at 80% or better, go up 25; below that, come down 50. The adult average is 238 for non-fiction.
What is the biggest mistake when speed reading research papers?
Flashing equations and tables as if they were sentences. They need to sit still.
More guides
Speed read non-fiction books
Start at 350 words a minute.
Speed read fiction
Start at 300 words a minute.
Speed read textbooks
Start at 250 words a minute.