The key to scanning is to locate valuable or detailed information quickly. With scanning skills the eye learns to pick up detail and fill gaps in data. While scanning a text look for significant and repeated words. Watch for definitions, highlighted words, especially words in italic or bold print. Learn to spot dates and statistics and other numbers. Do not try to read every word. When studying, know what you are looking for, think of questions, and scan for answers. Some authors put vital information in the margins of the page..
Techniques vary according to the purpose for reading. People read for information, enjoyment, or to complete a task. If the reader's purpose is to search for information, he will scan for a specific words. Skimming is used when the reader is exploring or reviewing larger texts. Different styles are required for different situations. If the reader has a large amount of text to cover, he will find that the use of scanning or skimming is more practical than reading every word.
After scanning an article or text, consider skimming. Skimming refers to reading data, three to four times faster than ordinary reading. Again, every word is not read. When faced with long texts and limited time, skimming becomes necessary. Researchers use skimming when searching articles for areas of interest. Skimming means reading the first and last paragraph or the first sentence in every paragraph. Headings, summarizes and other organizers are used in the skimming technique. Skimming does not involve comprehension. It merely allows the researcher to pick up specific information and choose which article will be helpful.
Every day, people read novels, manuals, newspapers, mail, web pages and textbooks. Readers rely on different reading styles or techniques based on their intent for reading, such as gaining information and knowledge, shopping, or socializing. A reader may scan a newspaper or magazine until she finds an article she wants to read in depth.
Computer screens are more difficult to read. Readers scan hard-copy text faster than text on a computer screen. It is important to note that scanning and skimming are not techniques used when following directions or reading novels.