Enjoy free tools, resources, PDFs for an effective reading experience
No matter what stage of learning you are in you can always seek to improve your skills. Take advantage of these free speed reading tools to sharpen your skills.
The only investment you will make will be a ‘time investment’ and making a small ‘time investment’ now will end up saving you much more time in the long run.
Apps
1. ZapReader
ZapReader (visit website) is an RSVP speed reading app that allows you to minimize the time you spend reading by giving you the most important parts of the text. Simply copy and paste your text into the designate box and ZapReader will scan the text for the vital pieces of information. The ZapReader will cut the time it takes to read a text document in half without the loss of information.
2. iReadFast
iReadFast (visit website) allows users to quickly absorb information within a text document and the ease of use and accuracy makes it great for using every day. The software itself is quite small which allows it to remain open and running ready for use at any moment. iReadFast is made for Mac’s so it does not cater to everyone. But those who do have a Mac can take advantage of this excellent free tool.
3. Accelareader
Accelareader (visit website) is a useful tool that can be pinned to your browser toolbar. Whenever you are ready to quickly read a text, simply highlight the designated text and hit the Accelareader button. Once you’ve activated the Accelareader, it will open the prepared text in a new window. This simple step process is yet another time saver as it takes away the needless step of copying and pasting while still preparing the important pieces of information you need from the text.
4. Readability
The Readability app (visit website) can take any webpage or source of text and simplify it for easier, faster reading. This multi-device app can work with any mobile device which allows you to take your work or studies wherever you go. In addition, users are able to save their reading for later by saving any web articles or websites they want to get back to.
5. ReadSpeeder
ReadSpeeder (visit website) is a unique three-tiered app that can display the text in three different visual ways. Choose the style that works best for you and let the reading begin. It allows you to quickly absorb the information without losing any comprehension and the multiple styles of fast reading offered in ReadSpeeder are suitable for a wide range of individuals.
PDF Materials
6. Word Groups
If you want to learn to read chunks of words and rather prefer a pen and paper approach then there is no better way to do so by downloading and using Ron Cole’s free PDF materials. There is a selection of four PDFs that will teach you to process and understand 2, 3, 4 and 5 words at the same time. You can also use your own texts to create these sheets with this tool.
- Download PDFs for practicing reading 2, 3, 4 and 5 chunks of words
- Create your own training sheets with this tool
Memory Improvement
7. Short term visual training
Short-term visual training (visit website) has different levels from novice to expert for those looking to improve their overall short –term memory. This visual training works by showing a set of numbers and asks you to recall a certain fact about the set of letters. You can choose to train the saccade size, sixe of memory, or even the accuracy of your memory.
8. Random words generator
Remembering twenty words a time is an excellent way to improve your memory. Using this method, within three weeks you can recall all twenty words with ease. This learning method requires you to separate words in groups of 3-5. From there, you create visual markers that link each group, and this needs to be done in under a minute for speed testing (visit website).
Language and Vocabulary
9. Memrise
Memrise (visit website) helps you learn languages and vocabulary in its fun and unique style. You can create flashcards, compete among friends or peers, and take it with you on any mobile device. Memrise strives to keep learning and education fun and interesting and with such a wide range of courses available, Memrise has something for everyone.
Read Later Tools
10. Pocket
No matter where you are or what device you are using, sometimes you come across an article or website that you just don’t have time to fully explore. With Pocket (visit website), you can quickly save videos, articles, and pretty much everything else for later. The great feature of Pocket is that anything you have saved for later does not require an Internet connection to view.
11. Instapaper
Instapaper (visit website) allows users to save anything, from anywhere to their mobile device or PC. When you are ready to go back and read or view what you have saved, you do not need a connection to the Internet. Instapaper also includes the ability to write notes by highlighting and commenting on any text within an article. This allows you to easily store, share, quote, or retrieve it when you need it.
Testing
12. WSJ Speed Reading Test
The WJS SRT (visit website) allows users to evaluate and improve your reading speeds. The WJS Test also includes tips you can implement for further improvement. To get started, users will need to click the play button on the main page and follow the instructions given. Once you are done reading you will be given a score. Comprehension tests are also given for a fully immersive learning experience. See all speed reading tests.
Videos
13. Video Class 1
This free video course gives users a great audio and visual tool for better learning outcomes. The video course is directly from a higher education school and is a trusted source for furthering individual learning. Accessing the free video course from the Internet gives users the opportunity for learning at home.
14. Video Class 2
In this YouTube Video (view it here), viewers can take the chance to double their reading speed and increase their comprehension levels. Studying effectively is a smarter way to approach studying so you can save time as well as access the information that is important or relevant to your studies.
Websites
15. Readersoft
Readersoft (visit website) is a software that helps fine tune your capabilities by assigning reading exercises that call for real-world application. Learning these techniques will take some time initially, but in the long run, using Readersoft will drastically improve your reading and comprehension skills.
Free Reading Resources and Tools – Summary
In summary, if you are a student or a professional that needs to have as much free time as possible, seek to use one of these free reading tools to your advantage. Learn how to speed read, improve your memory, and your learning skills today so you can have a brighter future when it comes to education.
Reviews: Speed Reading Software | Speed Reading Class
Do I have forgotten or not mentioned any relevant tools? Please share your thoughts or suggestions in the comments below. You may also share this post to help others become better at reading.