In this article, you will learn how to improve your English reading skills in 10 simple steps. These steps will help you enjoy learning this skill. Now, let’s start with why reading in English is important.
Why is Reading in English Important?
Reading is one of the most important skills when learning English. It is one of the four key language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Moreover, reading helps improve your writing skills. You can learn different writing styles and increase your vocabulary, common phrases, and grammar knowledge. Learning words in context while reading is much better than learning them alone.
10 Steps to Improve Your English Reading Skills
1. Choose a Quiet Place and Time to Read
It is best to read in a quiet room without noise so you can focus and enjoy your reading. A peaceful place helps your brain concentrate and visualize the scenes, making English stick in your mind. Also, set a fixed time for reading daily, ideally 15 to 30 minutes. Making reading a daily habit will naturally improve your reading skills.
2. Know Your Reading Level
You should know your reading level to choose the right books, novels, and stories. This way, you can understand and enjoy what you read. Many websites can help you test your English level, such as Penguin Readers.
3. Read Books About Your Interests
To avoid boredom, read books related to your interests. Choose stories and novels rather than complex scientific books. Stories are engaging and enjoyable.
Penguin Readers offers famous stories at different levels. For example, you can find books like 1984 and I Am Malala. They also provide audiobooks, so you can read and listen at the same time to improve both reading and listening skills.
4. Read and Listen at the Same Time
In the beginning, you may not know how to pronounce many words. It is helpful to have an audiobook along with a printed or digital version. This improves your reading, listening, and pronunciation skills.
On Penguin Readers, you can find books with both text and audio. If you cannot buy them, try YouTube channels like Learn English Through Story. These videos show the text while reading it aloud in American or British accents. Choose one accent to avoid confusion.
5. Focus on the General Meaning, Not Details
If you find an unfamiliar word, do not worry unless it appears frequently. If a word is repeated many times, write it down and check its meaning. However, do this only on your second reading, not the first time.
6. Read Again Without Audio
First, listen to the audiobook while reading. Then, read it again without listening.
On the first read, you will understand the pronunciation and general meaning. On the second read, you will reinforce the meaning and notice more details. Pay attention to frequently repeated words, as they are key to understanding the text.
7. Read Aloud
During your first read, just listen and follow the text. On the second read, read aloud. This has many benefits:
- Improves pronunciation – Your pronunciation will improve naturally over time.
- Reduces fear – Many people are shy about speaking English. Reading aloud will help you gain confidence.
- Helps accuracy – When reading silently, you may make mistakes without noticing. Reading aloud helps you recognize and correct mistakes.
8. Ask Yourself Questions Before, During, and After Reading
Asking questions improves your understanding. Before reading, skim the book and ask:
- What is this book about?
- Do I know any repeated words?
- What ideas might be in the book?
- Are there new words or phrases?
- Are there bolded keywords?
- Are the paragraphs short or long?
- Are there many dialogues?
While reading, ask:
- What is the writer saying in this paragraph?
- What is the main idea?
- What does this word mean in context?
After reading, ask:
- What was the writer’s message?
- If it’s a story, what was it about? Who were the main characters?
- What was the role of each character?
Write your answers in a notebook to practice writing skills. Penguin Readers books include similar questions at the end of each book.
9. Read Everything Around You
You can improve your reading skills not just with books but with anything written in English. Join English-speaking groups on social media, read their posts, and explore newspapers and magazines related to your interests. Anything written in English that interests you can help strengthen your reading skills.
10. Write a Summary of What You Read
Summarizing will improve both your reading and writing skills. After finishing a book or story, answer the questions you asked yourself and write a one- or two-page summary of the key ideas. This way, you develop two skills at the same time.
Final Thoughts
These are the best steps to improve your English reading skills. Follow them consistently, and you will see great progress in your ability to read and understand English!
