Myth #7: Sub-Vocalisation is a Bad Habit that Prevents Speed Reading
Once again, the so-called "bad habit" is only a symptom of another problem. In this case, sub-vocalisation is in some circumstances a very good habit. For example, when proof-reading the text of an oral presentation it is advisable to either read aloud or sub-vocalise to regulate the speed so that the review time approximates the presentation time. This can help avoid unpleasant surprises such as having the Master of Ceremonies usher you off stage just as you are winding up your introduction!
I use sub-vocalisation and often read aloud in order to slow my proof reading sufficiently for me to actually examine the text itself as I read. By sounding the text, I am better able to find errors in more complex grammatical structures and with the speed reduced to speaking-speed I find it easier to recognise those spelling errors that spell-checkers are notorious for missing.
When not reviewing oral content or otherwise proof-reading, sub-vocalisation is an indication of a poor work environment whose conditions are causing your concentration to wander. Under such conditions, sub-vocalisation is often the only way to shut out all the noise and distraction. Unfortunately, this does limit your reading speed to speaking speed and overcoming this boils down to two options:
- Change your environment to something friendlier to your work
- Learn other methods of shutting out the noise and distraction
(Eg. Meditation, ear-plugs, white noise generators, etc)
Either way, sub-vocalisation is not a problem but instead is the treatment of issues created by an underlying problem. By attempting to suppress sub-vocalisation without solving the underlying problem, you will only succeed in retarding your reading speed or otherwise impairing your comprehension under these conditions.
