aplavakarthik wrote:Hi,
I am a non native speaker of English and I find it a bit difficult to manage Verbal Part. Especially RCs which are more than 2-3 paragraphs.
I take around 12 min to a RC. I was advised to follow the skimming/passage mapping/getting big picture techniques. Any tips and advises to do them faster.
With Regards
Karthik
Each person has his own personal reading pace. You'll have to find one that works optimally for you.
Try this: Read a few RC passages (1) faster than your normal pace, and (2) slower than your normal pace. Pause after each paragraph to jot down the main ideas in your own words. Remember, not to focus too much on specific detail, but read every sentence. At the end, try to see if you can figure out the
main point and the "general gist" of the evidence used to support the main point.
If you find that you cannot figure out the point and/or supporting info, then decrease your reading pace. However, if you can find the main point and evidence without much effort, then try to increase your reading pace while maintaining comprehension.
Rinse and Repeat!
It might also be helpful to read articles from reputable outside sources -- wsj, economist, scientificAmerican. Read the article as quickly as you can, then answer only 2 questions (1) What was the point of the article? (2) How was the point supported? (in general terms).
I'd be interested in comments from others on my last point. I think it releases some of the pressure of working on an actual RC (not that GMAT RC shouldn't be your primary source) allowing you to practice reading for structure/main point.
Good Luck!
