Last Updated on August 18, 2023 by Louisa
There is no doubt that reading is a wonderful exercise for the mind, and there are countless benefits of reading.
One question that has many of us pondering is; will reading improve my speech?
The answer is yes, but it’s not a simple matter of reading any book and you’re suddenly an eloquent public speaker.
What texts you read and the way you read will determine whether reading can help you become a better communicator.
Why does reading improve my speech?
Reading is an excellent way to expand your vocabulary. When you read, you encounter new words and phrases that you may not have heard before.
Even if you’re an avid reader, sometimes you will discover new literary devices and phrases that you have not come across before.
Seeing these words in context can help you understand their meanings and how they are used.
As a result, you can incorporate these new words into your own speech, allowing you to express yourself more effectively.
Secondly, reading teaches you proper grammar and sentence structure. When you read, you expose yourself to well-written and grammatically correct sentences.
Over time, you will begin to internalize these rules and apply them in your own communication. This can help you avoid common grammar mistakes and speak more clearly and precisely.
Reading also improves your concentration skills and exercises the brain. When you read, you need to focus and concentrate, which trains your brain to pay attention to details.
This concentration carries over to your speaking skills, allowing you to piece words together more coherently and making you more attentive and focused when conversing with others.
Reading also develops your critical thinking skills. As you read, you are exposed to different ideas and perspectives, and this exposure can help you become more analytical and better able to evaluate arguments and evidence.
This skill can be invaluable in communication, as you become better able to express your own ideas and defend them against opposing viewpoints.
On top of it all, reading can help you develop empathy. When you read, you immerse yourself in different characters and situations and put yourself in their shoes.
This exposure can help you become more empathetic and understanding toward others, which can make you a better listener and communicator.
What types of text to read to make you a better speaker?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what text makes for a better reader, as ultimately the types of text that will make you a better speaker will depend largely on your personal interests and goals.
However, here are some types of text that are generally considered beneficial for improving speaking skills:
- Non-fiction books: Reading non-fiction books on a topic that interests you can help you expand your knowledge and vocabulary in that area. This can make you more confident and articulate when discussing those topics with others.
- Biographies and autobiographies: Reading about the lives and experiences of others can help you develop empathy and understanding towards different perspectives. This can help you become a more effective communicator by allowing you to connect with others on a deeper level.
- Fiction books: Reading fiction can enhance your creativity and imagination by exposing you to different storytelling techniques and styles. This can help you become a more interesting and engaging speaker by allowing you to incorporate elements of storytelling into your communication.
- Business and self-help books: Reading books on topics such as leadership, communication, and personal development can provide you with practical tips and strategies for improving your speaking skills.
- News articles and editorials: Keeping up with current events can help you stay informed and engaged in conversations with others. It can also expose you to different viewpoints and perspectives, which can enhance your critical thinking skills and make you a better debater.
- Poetry: Reading poetry can help you appreciate the beauty of language and improve your ability to use descriptive words and phrases in your own communication. It can also give you a fresh perspective on syntax, word order, and the rules of grammar.
Ultimately, the key is to vary your reading style and read widely and consistently. By exposing yourself to different types of text, you can expand your knowledge, vocabulary, and perspective, and become a more effective and confident speaker.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to note that reading alone is not enough to improve your speech. To truly become a better communicator, you need to practice speaking regularly.
Reading can definitely improve your speech. It expands your vocabulary, develops your grammar and syntax, improves your critical thinking skills, and enhances your empathy, which is all a solid foundation for becoming a more effective communicator.
So if you want to improve your speech, start by cultivating a daily reading habit. You may be surprised at how much it can help!
