How to remember more of what I read

We've all been there. You spend a lot of time poring over a textbook, a long text on your cell phone, or article, promising yourself that you'll remember all the information come test time. But when the big day arrives, you can barely recall any of it. It can be frustrating, especially when you feel like you're doing everything right. It may even feel like a waste of time. So, what gives? While human brains aren't designed to remember everything you read, there are ways to increase your reading volume and boost information retention. By following a few simple tips, you can make sure you're getting the most value out of your reading.

Developing great reading skills

Reading skills are not one-and-done, and there are ways to gain or improve them. Here are a few different ways you can do this.

Increasing your reading speed and volume

One way to become a better reader is to increase how much and how fast you can read. If you can read quicker, you'll be able to get through more material and retain more information. There are a few different ways you can work on increasing your speed. One way is by using a metronome or other timing device to help keep a consistent pace. While it might seem odd to listen to a timing device, over time it should become second nature. You may not want your reading time interrupted, but your reading speed and concentration will gradually deteriorate the longer you read. To avoid this, commit to regular interspersed reading sessions instead of wasting away at a table for hours. Make sure to spend your reading breaks away from books or screens. It can be tempting to spend your break time scrolling through social media or reading news articles, but this can end up making you feel more overwhelmed. Instead, take a walk, spend some time with your loved ones, or even make a coffee.

Buying an e-reader

Another way to make reading easier and more enjoyable is by investing in an e-reader like a Kindle or Nook. E-readers allow you to store multiple books on one device, so you always have something new to read whenever you want. They are also heavily streamlined to focus on the book, without many distractions. They also have features like built-in dictionaries and adjustable font sizes that can help make the reading process easier and less frustrating. If you're someone who likes highlighting passages or note-taking as you read, most e-readers allow you to do those things. They can help create mental pictures of the content, boosting your long-term memory.

Try a brand new way of reading

Maybe traditional reading isn't for you. If that's the case, there are other options available that can help you improve your skills. Try listening to audiobooks or podcasts or watching videos instead of reading text. You can also use apps like Spreeder or Readorium that offer specific exercises designed to help you read faster. Better yet, you could try text to speech (TTS) software like Speechify, which can convert any piece of text into spoken words. Whichever method you choose, make sure it works for you, and you'll be able to stick with it in the long run.

Forming good habits

One of the best ways to become a better reader is by developing good reading habits. Start by setting aside some time each day specifically for reading—even if it's just 10 or 15 minutes at first—so that it becomes part of your daily routine. Then, create a comfortable spot in your home where you can relax and focus on what you're reading without distractions like phones or TVs nearby. Lastly, ensure every book you read interests you so that reading feels like something enjoyable rather than another chore on your to-do list. For example, you could update your reading list and ditch fiction books in favor of non-fiction material. Your goal should always be adding new knowledge while still getting entertained. With good reading habits, you can learn more in less time.

How to make the book information stick

Sometimes information in books can be dull, and it can be hard to keep track of all the many details as you read. Here are some things that you can do to make the book information stick in your mind better.

Active reading

This may involve reading out loud or using your finger or a pencil to help you keep your place on the page and move more quickly. You can also underline or even write down certain pieces of information on an index card. For example, you could pause and write down the subject matter or the main points of every chapter. An active reader can create a memory palace and mental images of the text, thereby boosting memorization and retention.

Make connections to what you already know

A great way to help your brain store new information is by making connections between what you're reading and what you already know. So if you come across a new concept or character trait that's unfamiliar to you, try thinking of an analogy or example that will help solidify it in your mind. The more connections you can make, the better!

Don't just skim—Really engage with the text

When actively engaged with your reading, your brain is more likely to take in and store the information. So ask yourself questions as you read, make predictions about what might happen next, and visualize the scenes in your mind. The more engaged you are, the better.

Bonus tip—Check out memory games

Like any other muscle in your body, your brain needs exercise to stay strong and healthy. So, why not give it a workout with some fun memory games? Not only will it be enjoyable, but it could also help boost your retention skills even further.

Listen with Speechify while you read

When you're trying to learn new information, listening to what you're reading can be helpful. Studies have shown that hearing the words and, at the same time seeing them, can help your brain to better process and retain the information. That's where Speechify comes in. Speechify is a text to speech service that can read any text out loud, so you can listen while you work or study. Just enter the text you want to hear, and Speechify will read it aloud in a clear, natural-sounding voice. You can even adjust the speed and pitch to find the perfect setting for your needs. If you ever need to go back and review something, you can easily create a recording of the text so you can listen anytime, anywhere. Why wait? Give Speechify a try right away at speechify.com.

FAQ

What is the most common reason people forget what they read?

According to neuroscience experts, the most common reason is poor comprehension. This can be due to poor reading skills, lack of focus, or simply not paying attention.

What are some of the best ways to remember what you read?

One is to create a mental picture of the information, and another is to use keywords or mnemonic devices to help you remember key points.

What are some strategies for remembering more of what you read?

Try active reading by taking notes or jotting down key takeaways in your own words, reciting what you've read out loud, and relating the information you're trying to remember back to something you already know.