Silence Your Inner Voice and Read 3x Faster: The Power of Breaking Subvocalization

Have you ever noticed a voice reading the words inside your head as you scan a page? This silent speech, or subvocalization, is a natural habit developed during childhood. However, it now acts like a speed limiter, tying your reading pace to the slow rhythm of speech. Since the average speaking rate is about 150-200 words per minute, subvocalization restricts you from reading faster even though your eyes and brain can process text much quicker.

Beyond slowing you down, subvocalization can make reading feel monotonous and dull, inviting your mind to wander. The inner voice often reads in a flat, repetitive tone, which reduces engagement and comprehension.

Fortunately, there are effective ways to quiet this inner narrator. One simple method is to keep your mouth gently closed while reading, preventing the subtle lip and throat movements associated with silent speech. Another technique is humming a soft melody or listening to instrumental music without lyrics. These actions occupy your vocal cords and auditory attention, making it difficult to subvocalize simultaneously.

Try reading a paragraph while humming quietly or with gentle background music playing. You’ll notice your eyes moving faster and your mind staying more alert. Over time, this habit rewires your reading process, allowing you to absorb words as images and concepts rather than sounds.

Breaking subvocalization is a game-changer, freeing your brain to read at its natural speed and transforming your reading experience from slow and tedious to fast and engaging.

Sources: Coffeebookworm.com, Facebook Jentareads Group, Bookey app PDF on Speed Reading