What defines a good reader? / What are the qualities of a good reader?
If you’re wondering how to become a better reader, it’s important for you to understand what a good reader is, and what makes one such a great reader. You don’t want to make the mistake of thinking that just because you read a lot and quickly, you automatically qualify as a “good reader.” There’s more to becoming a good reader than simply reading a lot and rapidly.
So what exactly does it mean to be a good/great reader? To begin with, there are several different types of readers out there. Some people prefer to skim over books; others prefer to dig deeper into the material. As a matter of fact, there are even those who enjoy both approaches. But regardless of whether you like to skim over a book or dive deep into it, here are some key traits that define a good reader.
1. Good Readers Are Quickly Able to Understand Written Text
A good reader doesn’t necessarily have to be able to read a lot. In fact, many people find that having too much knowledge about something can sometimes hinder their ability to fully grasp the meaning behind the words. However, a good reader must be able to comprehend what he or she is reading. This includes recognizing patterns, identifying similarities, and grasping concepts.
2. Good Readers Can Read With Comprehension
Good readers are able to follow along while reading. They can pick up on things without needing to reread sections of the text. They can retain information and recall it later on. And most importantly, they can do this without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Good Readers Have Depth Of Understanding
While being able to read with comprehension is an essential trait for a good reader, so is depth of understanding. A good reader isn’t only someone who can read well but also someone who has a thorough understanding of the subject at hand.
4. Good Readers Are Open-Minded
It’s not enough to know how to read well. It’s equally important to be open-minded when reading. If you’re constantly judging the quality of a piece of writing based on your own standards, then you’ll never truly appreciate the work of other writers. Instead, try to view everything through the lens of a neutral observer.
5. Good Readers Are Willing To Learn More
There’s no doubt that learning new skills takes time. But if you really want to become a good reader, then you need to put in the effort. The best way to learn is by doing. So instead of sitting back and waiting for someone else to teach you, take charge of your education. Find a mentor or tutor who can help you improve your reading skills.
6. Good Readers Are Self-Motivated
Being self-motivated means that you won’t let yourself get distracted by outside influences. You will continue to focus on improving your reading skills even after school ends. It’s easy to lose motivation once you’ve reached a certain level of skill. But if you keep pushing forward, you’ll eventually reach the next step.
7. Good Readers Value Their Time
If you want to become a good/great reader, then you should value your time. Don’t waste your time on things that don’t add any value. Spend your time wisely. Invest in activities that will lead to greater success down the road.
8. Good Readers Are Dedicated
Dedication is one of the most underrated qualities in life. It’s often easier said than done, though. For example, if you’re dedicated to playing sports, then you might spend hours practicing every day. But if you’re dedicated to becoming a better reader, then you might spend just a few minutes each day working on your skills.
9. Good Readers Know How To Manage Stress
Stress is inevitable. But if you want to become a great/good reader, then you need a way to manage stress. One way to do this is by finding ways to relax. Take breaks throughout the day to exercise, meditate, or simply go for walks.
10. Good Readers Understand That Learning Is Never Finished
Learning is never finished. There will always be more to learn. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t stop trying to learn. In fact, it’s much healthier to keep learning than to give up. As long as there’s something left to learn, then you haven’t learned it all yet.
11. Good Readers Have An Intentional Focus
A lot of people have trouble focusing their attention. They are easily distracted by external stimuli. But if you want develop into a good/great reader then you must learn to control your distractions. Focusing your attention is like exercising willpower. And just like with physical fitness, the more you practice, the stronger your ability to focus becomes.
12. Good Readers Can Read With Different Levels Of Detail
When you first start out, you may only be able to understand the broad strokes of what you’re reading. But over time, you’ll begin to notice details that you didn’t see before. Eventually, you’ll be able to read at different levels of detail.