The Staples Reading Test

     What does it mean to be a speed reader? Is being able to read at a quick pace even important? Is any individual at all more intelligent or intellectual solely based on the fact that they can read at a faster pace than the average reader? And finally, what defines average?

     I personally consider myself to be a relatively slow reader, and I understand that that is because I enjoy absorbing what I read so that I can fully understand it. However, according to the Staples Reading Test, I am reading at the rate of a 3rd grader which means I read 40% slower than the national average!

     I was tested by reading a sample of H.G. Well's War of the Worlds, and was able to read the 186 words given in a period of 1 minute and 14 seconds, meaning I was able to read 2.5 words per second and 150 words per minute. After being tested on my reading pace I was asked a series of three questions which pertained to the selection I just read. And, I answered all three questions correctly. 

     So this brings me to the question - does it really matter how fast we read? According to the Staples Reading Test, and average adult should be able to read 300 words per minute, an average college student should be able to read 450 words per minute, high-scoring college students should be able to read 800 words per minute, and so-called "speed readers" should be able to read up to 1500 words per minute! This seems a little ridiculous.

     In my honest opinion I do not think reading pace should be anything to worry about, and the real thing to concentrate on while reading is that you are understanding and enjoying the material that you are absorbing. 

     However, if you are at all interested in finding out what your reading pace is you are able to take the Staples Reading Test by clicking here.