1.2 The 80/20 technique
This technique (also known as the Pareto principle) is a powerful tool that can help streamline processes. The principle suggests that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts. When applied to reading, this means focusing on the most important 20% of the text to gain 80% of the comprehension and value.
Specifically, it helps people with dyslexia in the following ways.
- Prioritising key information
- Focusing on main ideas – for individuals with dyslexia, reading can be a strenuous task. By identifying and concentrating on the main ideas and key points, they can reduce the amount of text they need to process, making reading less overwhelming.
- Highlighting important sections – using tools like highlighters or digital annotations to mark the crucial 20% of the text can help dyslexic readers quickly locate and revisit important information.
- Reducing cognitive load
- Simplifying reading tasks – by narrowing down the focus to the most critical parts of the text, the cognitive load is significantly reduced. This makes it easier for dyslexic readers to process and retain information.
- Using summaries and bullet points – summarising key points and using bullet points can break down complex information into manageable chunks, aiding comprehension and memory.
- Enhancing reading techniques
- Skimming and scanning – encouraging dyslexic readers to skim and scan for the most relevant 20% of the content can improve their reading efficiency. This technique helps them quickly identify the main ideas without getting bogged down by every word.
- Visual aids and mind maps – incorporating visual aids like mind maps can help dyslexic readers organise and visualise the key concepts, making it easier to understand and remember the material.
- Building confidence
- Achieving quick wins – by focusing on the most impactful parts of the text, dyslexic readers can achieve quick wins, boosting their confidence and motivation to continue reading.
- Setting realistic goals – the 80/20 technique helps set realistic reading goals, making the task feel more achievable and less daunting.
By applying the 80/20 technique, individuals with dyslexia can enhance their reading skills, improve comprehension, and make the reading process more enjoyable and less stressful. This approach not only helps in academic settings, but also in everyday reading tasks.