Skimming

The Topic: Skimming and Scanning |

Easier - There are different styles of reading for different situations. The technique you choose will depend on the purpose for reading. For example, you mightbe reading for enjoyment, information, or to complete a task. If you are exploring or reviewing, you might skim a document. If you're searching for information, you might scan for a particular word.To get detailed information, you might use a technique such as SQ4R. You need to adjust your reading speed and technique depending on your purpose.
Many people consider skimming and scanning searchtechniques rather than reading strategies. However when reading large volumes of information, they may be more practical than reading. For example, you might be searching for specific information,looking for clues, or reviewing information.
Harder - Web pages, novels, textbooks, manuals, magazines, newspapers, and mail are just a few of the things that people read every day. Effective andefficient readers learn to use many styles of reading for different purposes. Skimming, scanning, and critical reading are different styles of reading and information processing.
Skimming is used toquickly identify the main ideas of a text. When you read the newspaper, you're probably not reading it word-by-word, instead you're scanning the text. Skimming is done at a speed three to four timesfaster than normal reading. People often skim when they have lots of material to read in a limited amount of time. Use skimming when you want to see if an article may be of interest in your research.There are many strategies that can be used when skimming. Some people read the first and last paragraphs using headings, summarizes and other organizers as they move down the page or screen. You mightread the title, subtitles, subheading, and illustrations. Consider reading the first sentence of each paragraph. This technique is useful when you're seeking specific information rather than reading...