Skimming vs Scanning: When Should You Use Each?
The Two Reading Gears That Save 15 Minutes Per Test
Skimming is reading for general gist; scanning is hunting for specific data. Master when and how to switch between these two essential gears.
01 — Identify The Problem
Using only one reading speed throughout the exam and running out of time on Passage 3.
02 — Why It Happens
Treating every word with equal importance instead of prioritizing structural topic sentences.
03 — The Strategy
04 — Demonstration
Locating when Dr. John Watson published his treatise.
Skims the entire text from start to finish.
Scans specifically for capital 'W' and 4-digit numbers. Locates in 8 seconds.
05 — Common Trap
Stopping to read interesting trivia in the passage that is completely irrelevant to the questions.
06 — Practice Method
"Skim for main ideas (Headings); scan for specific facts (MCQ, Fill in the blanks)."
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