Reading is more than just putting letters together. It’s about understanding that each letter has a sound and that these sounds, when combined, form meaningful words. This allows us to communicate and exchange ideas. The act of reading, in its essence, doesn’t vary much, but it can change depending on the type of text we’re reading.

For example, scientific texts use specialised vocabulary, filled with technical terms, references to research, and structures uncommon in other types of writing. On the other hand, social studies texts combine detailed information with visual elements, such as graphs or images, creating an interesting and dynamic mix.

In the case of literary texts, their style depends on the format: they can be as flexible as poetry, as structured as a novel, or as innovative as digital literature, which blends different media to tell stories. Each type of text demands a different reading strategy.

For instance, scientific texts invite careful reading and re-reading to understand complex concepts. In contrast, when reading literature, it may be more useful to visualise scenes and connect ideas. What all texts share, regardless of the subject, is the need to question them: to reflect on what they say and how they say it. These skills are key to the learning fostered in an environment like our British school in Valencia, where critical reading and comprehension are encouraged from an early age.

 

Techniques to improve reading comprehension

Below, we list 21 reading strategies that work for all types of content.

 

1. Reread the text

When we read a text for the first time, we usually grasp the main idea. If we want to delve deeper, rereading is one of the best options. Knowing the general idea beforehand makes details that were initially overlooked much more obvious during the second reading.

 

2. Use your prior knowledge

The information we’ve learned throughout our lives can be very helpful in new situations. Similarly, when reading a text, prior knowledge is crucial as it can facilitate comprehension.

 

3. Read between the lines: use context clues

When we encounter an unfamiliar word while reading, context clues can help us deduce its meaning. This strategy involves understanding a word by analysing the surrounding text. It’s all about using logic.

 

4. Think aloud

Things make more sense when spoken aloud. If something isn’t fully understood while reading silently, repeating it out loud can help clarify its meaning.

 

5. Summarise

After finishing a text, summarising the key points—such as characters, motives, problems, or outcomes—can help fill in any gaps in understanding. This technique is especially important in higher education, where texts are more complex and require deeper analysis.

 

6. Identify keywords

Writers often use keywords that repeat throughout the text to emphasise important ideas. Identifying these words can greatly aid comprehension.

 

7. Make predictions

Anticipating how a text will end keeps us engaged and helps us connect with the material.

 

8. Visualise

Creating mental images of what we’re reading can significantly improve comprehension.

 

9. Use text organisers

For longer texts, tools like concept maps can be invaluable. These visual summaries highlight key points and show relationships between concepts, making the material easier to understand.

 

10. Evaluate what you’ve learned

After reading, assess whether you’ve fully understood the text. Identifying unclear areas early allows you to address them before moving on.

 

11. Question the text

Asking questions about the content as you read helps you understand its purpose and may provide new perspectives.

 

12. Take breaks

Just as our muscles tire after physical activity, our eyes and mind need rest after prolonged reading. Taking breaks helps maintain focus and comprehension.

 

13. Monitor and repair your understanding

Stay focused while reading, and if something isn’t clear, pause and try to clarify it. Reread the section or seek alternative solutions, such as asking for help.

This technique is essential during secondary education, as it helps develop critical thinking and correct any misunderstandings before moving on.

 

14. Paraphrase

If a concept isn’t clear, try rephrasing it in your own words. This can help solidify your understanding.

 

15. Take notes

Notes are an essential part of learning. They help organise the text’s structure and highlight key points, making it easier to review later.

 

16. Adjust your reading pace

It’s natural to start reading quickly and slow down as you progress. Don’t stress—comprehension is more important than speed.

 

17. Prioritise information

Focus on the main ideas first, then move on to supporting details. This prevents confusion when dealing with lengthy or information-heavy texts.

 

18. Set reading goals

To avoid burnout, set goals for your reading. Choose topics that interest you and know when to take breaks.

 

19. Make textual connections

Look for relationships within the text, especially in longer works. Connectors (like conjunctions) can help you understand how ideas are linked.

 

20. Skim the text

A quick, superficial read can help you grasp the main idea before diving into the details.

 

21. Stop, summarise, question

After finishing a text, follow these three steps: pause to reflect, summarise the content, and ask questions about the argument. This ensures a deeper understanding of the material.

These strategies not only improve reading comprehension but also foster critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for academic success and lifelong learning.