The CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) is a highly competitive exam, and one of the most crucial sections is the English Language Comprehension. It tests your ability to read quickly, understand dense passages, and answer inferential questions under time pressure. Improving your reading speed without compromising comprehension is key to cracking this section.
In this article, we will discuss effective strategies, daily practices, and tips to help you improve your reading speed for CLAT comprehension questions.
Why Reading Speed Matters in CLAT
CLAT passages are typically around 400-450 words long and followed by 5-6 questions each. With limited time (120 minutes for 150 questions), you need to:
Read the passage quickly.
Understand the central idea.
Identify relevant details.
Eliminate incorrect answer choices confidently.
A slow reading speed leads to time crunch, reduced accuracy, and higher stress levels.
Key Strategies to Improve Reading Speed
1. Practice Active Reading
Active reading means engaging with the text as you read. Ask yourself:
What is the main idea?
What is the author’s tone?
Are there examples or contrasts?
This helps you absorb the information faster and improves comprehension.
2. Eliminate Subvocalization
Subvocalization is the habit of pronouncing words in your head as you read. While it helps in understanding complex material, it slows down your reading. To reduce subvocalization:
Use your finger to guide your eyes.
Read in chunks instead of word-by-word.
3. Increase Eye Span
Train your eyes to read multiple words at once instead of one word at a time. Tools like Spritz and Spreeder can help improve eye span and word group recognition.
4. Avoid Regression
Regression is going back to reread the same line or word. To avoid this:
Focus on forward reading.
Train your brain to trust the first read.
Practice with a timer to reduce second-guessing.
5. Use Timed Reading Drills
Set a timer and read a CLAT-level passage within 3-4 minutes. Then, answer the questions. Track:
Time taken.
Accuracy.
Comprehension level.
Gradually, you’ll notice an improvement in both speed and precision.
Daily Reading Practice for CLAT Aspirants
Incorporate these reading sources into your daily routine:
Editorials from The Hindu, Indian Express, or LiveMint.
Long-form articles from The Economist, BBC Features, or Aeon Essays.
Opinion pieces on current affairs and social issues.
Aim to read at least 2-3 high-quality articles every day and summarize them in your own words to check understanding.
Sample CLAT Reading Drill (DIY)
Pick a 400-450 word article.
Read it within 3 minutes.
Summarize the main idea in 2 lines.
Note down 3 supporting points.
Answer 5 mock questions related to tone, inference, assumption, etc.
Useful Tools to Boost Reading Speed
Spreeder (speed reading software)
ReadTheory.org (comprehension practice)
Anki (flashcards for vocabulary building)
Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis (vocabulary + speed)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Focusing too much on unfamiliar words — instead, infer meaning from context.
Reading without a purpose — always have a goal: main idea, tone, structure.
Neglecting comprehension for speed — balance is crucial.
Skipping practice tests — real improvement comes with application.
Final Tips for CLAT Comprehension Mastery
Read daily and track your progress.
Focus on comprehension, not just speed.
Practice a mix of genres — law, politics, science, economics.
Simulate real test conditions regularly.
FAQs on Improving Reading Speed for CLAT
Q1. What is an ideal reading speed for CLAT?
A: Aim for 250–300 words per minute with 80%+ comprehension. This allows you to complete passages efficiently.
Q2. How long does it take to improve reading speed?
A: With consistent daily practice (30–45 minutes), noticeable improvements can be seen in 4–6 weeks.
Q3. Should I skip difficult words while reading?
A: Yes, try to understand them from context. Mark them and review after the reading session.
Q4. Are apps like Spreeder useful?
A: Yes, they can help train your brain and eyes to process information faster.
Q5. How often should I practice reading comprehension?
A: Ideally, 3-4 times a week with full-length passages and mock test practice once a week.
Conclusion
Improving your reading speed for CLAT comprehension is a skill that develops over time with disciplined and focused practice. Combine speed drills with comprehension checks to strike the right balance. The more you practice, the more confident and quick you’ll become in handling CLAT’s toughest passages.
