Narration:
Like skimming, when you are scanning it is important that you do not look at each word individually or start ‘saying’ the words you are looking at. This can mean you lose focus on what you are actually scanning for. One way to make sure that you remain focused is by repeating the word or phrase you are looking for as you move your eyes down the text. Of course, you will need to consider how the information could be rephrased, but repeating the keyword can help you locate similar words or phrases. Scanning for information is something you already have practice at – you will have done this when looking for a word in a dictionary or a telephone number in a directory. Throughout the course you will have plenty of opportunity to practice this skill. In the next presentation, we will practice scanning skills.