Regression Reduction
Short Answer
Reduce regressions by keeping your eyes moving forward with a guide, setting a clear purpose for the text, and verifying comprehension with quick summaries. Most backtracking is caused by distraction or uncertainty—not true necessity.
What Causes Backtracking
Regressions usually happen when your attention drifts, when a sentence is ambiguous, or when you’re trying to read too fast for the material. The fix is to stabilize attention and pace—not to “force” your eyes not to move back.
A Practical Routine
1) Preview first: Know the structure before you start.
2) Use a pointer: Track steadily under the line.
3) Pause at paragraphs: One-sentence summary; then continue.