Skimreading

Skimreading, also known as skim reading, is a rapid reading technique aimed at extracting the general meaning, key ideas, or the relevance of a text rather than understanding every detail. It involves selective attention to cues such as headings, subheadings, topic sentences, emphasized words, and visual layout, while reducing attention to function words and nonessential sentences.

Common methods include establishing a clear purpose before reading; previewing the structure via headings and abstracts; reading the first and last sentences of paragraphs; scanning for keywords, names, dates, and figures; and using a pointer or guide to maintain a fast pace. Some readers also reduce subvocalization and widen peripheral vision to increase speed.

Skimming is useful when starting a literature search, evaluating relevance, previewing a document before a full read, or scanning large volumes of material such as news, reports, or manuals. It can significantly reduce reading time, but comprehension and retention tend to be lower than for full reading, especially for complex or technical material.

It is not well-suited for detailed understanding, argument analysis, or learning new concepts. Readers may miss nuances, critical data, or methodological details if they rely on skimming alone. Skill with skimming improves with practice and depends on the reader's goals and the text type.

Relation to scanning: scanning is a related form focused on locating specific information rather than grasping overall sense. Skimming and scanning are components of broader speed-reading practices.