The hard part has been done. You have bought your new 7 Speed Reading computer software eReflect, and now you are all set to learn how to speed-read.

You made the decision to learn by computer for obvious reasons. Attending courses in person is difficult, and time restrictive, and learning on your own through textbooks only isn’t always easy. It is the interactive capabilities of computers, and the Internet that make learning by computer attractive, convenient, and rewarding. For one thing using computer software isn’t restrictive. Attending classes, or courses, is usually time-specific over a set number of weeks. Using a computer at home and you can set your own schedule that fits in with your daily routine.

But it is important to remember that without the will to succeed, you won’t succeed. Beginning a home-study course needs to be initiated in the best possible conditions if you are going to get the most from the experience, and take maximize benefit from the software program. Before starting, make sure a number of crucial preparatory steps have been taken.

For instance, it is handy to bear in mind that speed-reading is more than just learning how to use your eyes to move across a page of text. The art of speed-reading is more about training your brain to read in a different way. It’s about mindset, and being aware that you will have to adjust the way you use your brain. Speed-reading is a combination of faster eye movement, with heightened levels of concentration.

Secondly, before starting any speed-reading session take a few minutes to prepare your mind, and clear it of unnecessary thoughts. Your mind needs to be clear in order to focus on the particular task you are about to set it.

Thirdly, it is important to be sitting in a comfortable position before starting any study. If you are at a desk, make sure you sit straight, with your back against the chair, and feet flat on the floor. You need to be relaxed, but ready to focus.

Fourthly, ensuring you are in a fit state to concentrate fully on the speed-reading exercises is very important. Concentration for this re-training of the brain, and eyes can be maximized by taking frequent breaks between studies. Everyone’s brain is different, and has varying degrees of capability. There is nothing wrong with acknowledging our limits, so don’t worry if you can only do a bit at a time. In fact taking short five-minute breaks regularly helps the efficiency, and interest of the brain. But while taking your break, rather than get side-tracked or distracted by the thoughts, try going over what it is you have just learned. Replaying the exercise, or processes of speed-reading you have just been practicing will help your brain remember more.

At the same time while consciously storing the things you need to remember, try keeping the mind alert with purpose. Remind yourself why you want to read faster, and motivate yourself with encouraging words to yourself. Be pleased with your progress, or give yourself a little kick up the backside if you have found it a less than successful session.

Having said that, with a program such as 7 Speed Reading there won’t be much need to motivate yourself, as your interactive instructor will do all that for you!