Scanning Reading

A.  Definition of Scanning

Scanning is a reading skill used to locate key or specific information quickly, eg dates, numbers, examples & definitions. When you read the newspaper, you're probably not reading it word-by-word, instead you're scanning the text. You search for key words or ideas. In most cases, you know what you're looking for, so you're concentrating on finding a particular answer. Scanning involves moving your eyes quickly down the page seeking specific words and phrases. Scanning is also used when you first find a resource to determine whether it will answer your questions. Once you've scanned the document, you might go back and skim it.

B. Why scan?

Ø In simple material : to find particular names, facts, words, numbers, and specific information

Ø In less simple material : to find services, data, resources, when exact wording is not available

Ø In complex material : to visualize and follow an argument, style, reasons, motifs, patterns, support for inference, evidence of sound logic/ reasoning, evidence of faulty reasoning, propaganda, and/or bias

Ø On the web :  Scanning is a method often employed to sift through the plethora of information available on the web.

C. Types of materials appropriate for scanning:

Ø Simple : lists, dictionaries, white pages, tables, signs, classified ads

Ø Less simple : yellow pages, reference works, tables of contents, indices (indexes), web pages

Ø Complex : continuous prose - documents, articles, books, long descriptions

D. Steps for scanning

Ø Look for key words, or words that are repeated.

Ø Look for definitions.

Ø Look for highlighted words, eg words in bold or italic.

Ø Look for numbers, eg dates and statistics.

Ø Look for examples, including diagrams.

Here's an example of scanning for specific information: Try this scanning exercise.