Struggling with Reading Speed? 3 Key Strategies to Finish Faster

1. Why is your reading slow?
Diligent students often try to understand every single word from start to finish. However, exams are a race against time. Instead of striving for perfect comprehension of the entire text, switch your focus to "picking up" the essential points that lead to the correct answer.

2. Three Points to Dramatically Increase Your Speed
Point 1: The Assertion (What is the main message?)
Look for phrases like "Tsumari" (In short) or "Daiji na no wa" (The important thing is). The author’s main point is usually hidden right after these conclusion markers. Mastering this helps you see the "skeleton" of the text.

Point 2: The Reason (Why is it being said?)
Pay close attention to words like "Nazenara" (Because) or "To iu no wa" (The reason is). Most reading questions ask for the underlying reason. If you can link the assertion with its reason, you can answer questions without hesitation.

Point 3: The Contrast (Not A, but B)
Words that show contrast, such as "Shikashi" (However) or "Ippou de" (On the other hand), are where traps are often set. By distinguishing between what the author rejects (A) and what they support (B), you can easily avoid misleading options.

3. Summary: Focus on the Essentials to Save Time
By keeping these three points in mind, you will spend less time over-analyzing unnecessary details, and your accuracy will naturally improve.

Not sure if you can spot these key markers instantly?
Try practicing 10 questions a day on Rapid Japanese (Beta). Once you master the grammar patterns that form the structure of a sentence, you’ll be able to predict what’s coming next, significantly boosting your reading speed.

Test your reading foundation for free:
https://rapid-jt.com/