Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 36 to 40.
Subvocalization is a widespread habit among readers which involves saying words in your head while reading, and it makes people read slowly because when they say every word in their head while reading, they read at around the same rate as they talk, which is only about 150-250 words per minute.
Luckily, you can train yourself to slowly minimise subvocalization and boost your reading speed. The first step is to realize one important thing: it is not necessary. For example, when you see a stop sign, you just look at the word "STOP" and process it automatically instead of saying it in your head. Understanding that you don't need to say every word to understand what you read will make it easier for you to try to reduce subvocalizing.
Completely stopping subvocalization while reading is impossible, but you can keep your inner voice busy with something else. You can distract yourself by counting from one to three while you are reading the material. While you are doing this, try fixating your eyes somewhere at the beginning of the line, somewhere in the middle of the line, and somewhere at the end of the line. While you are looking in those three places, count "one, two, three." With some practice, you'll be able to say less and less words in your head as you read.
Listening to music will not only help you minimize subvocalization but also concentrate better. However, keep in mind that not all types of music will prove helpful. You want to avoid listening to music with lyrics or anything with a strong beat because this will distract you. It may also be a good idea to avoid songs that remind you of things that can make you emotional (your high school crush, a touching scene from a movie, etc.)
(Adapted fromirisreading.com)
