Effortless Reading: The Simple Way to Read and Guarantee Remarkable Results

by Vu Tran, Nancy Pile (Editor)

In our overloaded lives, finding time to read is a true challenge. Yet, we occasionally hear great people, like Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, or Elon Musk, talk about how they maintain their reading routines or how their dedication to reading helps differentiate them from the crowd. You might have already read other self-development books on how to increase your reading speed. The problem, though, is that they all tend to offer pretty much the same Expand your vision, stop your vocals, scan, skim, and so on. It's all good advice but is no longer applicable in the new digital world. This book is aimed at nonfiction readers who read under 50 books every year and want to up their game. Avid readers will also enjoy the book, as it provides a new perspective about reading habits. For entrepreneurs who are very tight on learning time, this book could be the remedy for your thirst for knowledge, helping you to keep your innovation-ball rolling on the industry’s edge. Effortless Reading provides a new approach to reading that once again puts you in control of the exponentially growing knowledge stream, supporting you in achieving the level of success that you desire. Even if you are a slow reader, you can still apply the technique proposed in Effortless Reading. If you have never read any book before, following the formula in Effortless Reading will save you months of wasteful reading effort. The best part—you can spend as few as 15 minutes a day and still be able to build a sustainable and beneficial reading practice.In this book, you’ll come across the of the reading mindset that distinguish a smart reader from a regular one.Pitfalls that stop people from building healthy reading habits.The recommended reading approach and the four elements those make it efficient and effortless.You might have realized that with today’s deluge of information, you have to do something different to keep up. What stopping you from making every minute of your reading time counted?Scroll to the top and click the “buy now” button.Don’t forget to enter the book giveaways to win hard copies of popular self-development books including The One Thing (by Gary Keller).

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Productivity, Reference, Ebooks, How To

86 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 4, 2015

About the author

Vu Tran reads more than 800 books over the last three years as he is obsessed with finding a new way to accelerate learning.

Vu has been a lifelong software engineer with an entrepreneurial mind. When he's not leading his engineering team, Vu immerses himself on self-development activities.

Vu lives in Seattle with his wife. To find out what he is running experience on, visit http://effortless-reading.com.

Reviews

[Alana Moore · Rating 1 out of 5]

At least it was short

Want to read more books? Only read one chapter of each. People who finish books are time wasters.

Wow, thanks for the tip.

[Duong Tan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Khi tác giả gửi tặng tôi cuốn sách này, điều đầu tiên tôi muốn kiếm tìm là sự khác biệt so với những cuốn hướng dẫn đọc sách khác. Và tôi đã tìm thấy những điều mới mẻ hữu ích.
Không giống như những cuốn sách dạy đọc nhanh, đọc nhiều, đây là cuốn sách dạy đọc có ý nghĩa và tạo thói quen tốt. Tôi cho rằng bốn điều cốt yếu của việc đọc mà tác giả đề xuất là rất khả thi và thực dụng: Đọc có lựa chọn, Đọc đi rồi lại đọc lại, Đọc cân bằng giữa các thể loại, Đọc với tốc độ phù hợp. Bốn điều này tạo nên một cách tiếp cận mà tác giả gọi là đọc có chủ đích "Deliberate Reading".
Thật thú vị, tôi cũng đã đồng tình với quan điểm đọc có chủ đích này trước khi được đọc cuốn sách ngắn nhưng hữu ích có tên "Effortless Reading".
Đây hẳn là một cuốn sách cập nhật và bổ sung hữu ích cho một cuốn kinh điển khác đã có tuổi đời quá nửa thập kỉ mà tôi nhiều lần giới thiệu cho bạn bè, cuốn "How to read a book" của nhà giáo M. Adler.
Chỉ 85 trang pdf, đọc lướt chưa cần tới 1 tiếng. Nếu áp dụng những điều tác giả gợi ý, tôi cho rằng không đến 2 tháng, mỗi bạn đọc có thể có một thói quen đọc sách tốt hơn hẳn cho suốt cuộc đời.

[Jenny Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring

This book may be short, but it gave me a lot of good ideas on how I can read more efficiently and selectively. This method is going to save me a lot of time, but also taught me how to get more out of my reading. It's definitely worth reading.

[Andy Dill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Effortless Reading: The Simple Way to Read and Guarantee Remarkable Results by Vu Tran to be very helpful. He tells us about deliberate reading rather than speed reading. Having read more than 80 books in less than three months because I read over 1200 WPM routinely, I found many of the authors techniques to be useful in the future. Now I can read more books in less time by knowing the why and not having to read the entire book, which is something I insist on doing. I like how he describes the different methods used to read different types of books. The how to books will go much faster, not reading the same stuff you read in all of them. I like how he talks about shifting gears for different types of reading and agree. I downshift when it comes to passages I want to take in fully. His suggested methods will allow me to change the way I read. Deliberate reading will allow you to pick the chapters that are pertinent to what you want to learn, leaving you time to act on what you have read or read other books. For those who are slow readers or only want to learn specific things, this is a great book for you to read right away. It is a fast read in itself and you can go back through it frequently and learn all the techniques. I also like how he advocates balancing different types of books in your reading. I recommend this book for everyone, no matter your reading level or skill. Know your why when you start a book and you will get more out of your reading.

I wanted to let the author know that I thought I had left this review earlier, but found it in my notes. Thank you for the copy of "The Art of War". Yes, the book giveaway is real.

[Deidre Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author's life credentials in the introduction convinced by I wanted to keep reading, that this would not be a waste of my time.

Even as a retired person, I am launching my own second career and know too well that my success is dependent upon reading, digesting, and applying more and more information in order to stay on top. This is an easily over-whelming task, but Vu Tran has really assisted me in approaching this need with a different perspective.

I liked the concept of learning by simulation - gaining by other's wisdom and hard-learned mistakes - to get on the fast track in my new career without getting burned by making those mistakes my self. Hence the need to read even more.

The author likens books to friendships. We may ask a friend about a single problem one day to address a particular need. Another day, we return with a different need or desire for deeper friendship. Books can be read with that same approach; I no longer have to read it all the way through the first time to get my answer; I may return many times to get more and more information as the need arises.

I will immediately expand upon my own system of book annotation, per the examples presented here, to make returning to my 'friend' for advise easier, and I may find the information I seek more readily.

[رَشَد الأرحيم · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book could have certainly been summarized in an article. The first chapter was captivating. I think that is where I felt most of the content was. The rest of the book was just an extension to that; in someway or another.

The writer is extremely opinionated. There's nothing wrong with that- only when opinions turn to forceful advice. Vu Tran (in many instances) belittles the idea of actually finishing a book. And though he does mention (only when a book has already served its purpose), I question whether he realizes if that strategy applies to his writing. Because I certainly felt like letting it go from chapter#2.
In any case, it was a short read which made it tolerable. And if I could summarize what I learnt from this book in a few bullets:

* Go through a book in multiple passes, each with a different purpose, speed and understanding.
* Learn about the author before reading the book.
* Read the table of contents
* Read the intro and skim through the first chapter. Delve into the chapter which most likely answers your question.
* Track your progress by creating a list of favourite books.

Yep, that's just about it.

[Jerry Lafontant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This book open up my eyes on important details that can hold you back appreciate reading .. it simply leads you to how you can reconquer this burning flame and tactfully get over any obstacles... like it

[Midori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is for those who mainly read non-fiction (self-help) books for growth hacking, personal development... not for those who love reading as a great pleasure.

The author offered some good tips in reading 'non-fictions' such as 'selective reading', 'repetitive reading your best 150 books', 'balanced book choices', and 'reading in the right speed', all of these 4 core tips the author named as 'deliberate reading'.
I like this book because it's short and sweet, and quite practical to apply immediately.

However, he advised that we only need to read 1-2 chapters of ANY book just to find out the answers for questions we are asking. As the author said, books are like friends, you can't get it in one pass. How come you "get" one whole book in reading 1 or 2 chapters only? - which I totally disagree.
I read a whole book not because I feel pity for the amount I paid for the book, but as a way of respecting the author, the book, and to gain more insights as well as reading itself is a great pleasure.

And I confuse why the author named the book as "Effortless Reading"!

[Sangharsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, simple and to the point. Give it a shot, you'll learn a thing or two.

[Harold Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative!

I can honestly say that I have a new outlook on reading because of this book! Deliberate reading just makes perfect sense!

[May Ling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful book by Vu Tran makes me think... wow... life can be so much easier. This is the book I wish I could write.

Effortless reading is written for everyone. I read a lot and I recall vividly all of the process that he talks about. It's 100% true.

I don't know that I totally agree with how he's thinking about what you read fast vs. what you read slow, but honestly, close enough!

The book is short and if you've got any speed behind you, you can finish this (80 pages I think my kindle said) in short order. The voice that he uses to write is frank, straight forward, and approachable.

I love what he says about the 50 books that you like, 150 books that you will reference often. Less than 50 means you haven't found enough books of diverse meaning to hold you, more than 150 and these are not the books you love, they are just a list of good books. Love it. So true.

His example of Napolean Hill's book vs. the 4-hour work week and what they are designed to do vs. to do is just fantastic. I had not thought of that or seen it.

I had not heard of adding hashtags to my kindle to find materials in the future. I still prefer to write notes out into a book. It makes me remember that I made note of it and I tend to go back over them every now and again when I'm bored. But everyone has a system and I think will likely use this little hash tagging tip quite soon.

Really a great piece. He doesn't get 5 stars only because he doesn't quite belong in my 150 at this time. However, for someone who is trying to overcome that fear of reading as a regular part of your mental diet, this is likely a 5 star book.

[Angeles · Rating 1 out of 5]

It is more of a book to shares perspective rather than techniques, it does contain other people's quote, for example, ~ Paul Ahlstrom, “Most entrepreneurs fail because they do the right things, but in the wrong ORDER.” or even notable people such as Gary Keller and Jim Rohn.

However in Academical sense, we tend to look into evidence with critical thinking, I wrote a Summary along while I'm reading as a habit, but I cannot conclude anything other than ~Important Aspect :

1. Understanding your strength and your situation
2. Activating the “ Gold Miner Mindset” reading with the “one thing” Principle.
3. Building your reading habit around your situation, goal and available cognition.

As well as a mistake when the author mentioned neutrons Axon but after searching up, I think what he meant was Neuron Axons. However, there were no technique or development skills to improve this organ either. So, I will not recommend this book and give it only one star.

In today's time, with information era, things are meant to put on a test, and without using other people's shine to cast your own shadow, then I'll regard it as a solid content.

[Christi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really excited to read this book. I am an avid reader but there are times while reading nonfiction that the comprehension can be tough especially if it's a topic you're not too crazy about. In Effortless Reading the author introduces you to an approach called "deliberated reading" which is different than traditional reading methods that we have been taught. The goal is to "absorb knowledge as quickly as possible."

I have to admit that I was very disappointed in this approach. It wasn't what I expected at all. After the first few chapters this book was hard and harder to read and finishing it ended up being a chore. I did get a few good pointers and I could see using 'deliberated reading' in certain situations but it's definitely not a technique I see me using often.

*I received a copy of this book from Reading Deals in exchange for an honest review

[Winston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was looking for a book to improve my reading. I had read many speed reading books but none worked. I picked up this book without any expectation, little did I know this book would change the way I read and the pace I read.

There were many reasons why I didn’t read enough in the past and it wasn’t because I couldn’t read fast enough. This book had helped me identify those problems. I list just a handful below.
1) I get stuck in boring parts of the book
2) I feel bad not finishing a book I started
3) I get lost in books that were not well structured
And many more.

This book although simple and concise, has given me a life changing effect. I read 30 books in the last 60 days and that is simply amazing.

I am thankful for this book and I am thankful for the Author Vu Tran for sharing his reading journey and his technique.

A well deserved 5 star.

[Adit · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can’t say this is my favourite self-management book, but what I can say about this book is that it’s not short of being a great guidance to become a better reader and comprehending different types of reading styles.
It revealed the three myths that can put an end to years of wasteful reading; such as deliberated reading
, selective focus, repetition, balance and getting in the right gear. Nonetheless, all the aforementioned comes with easy to read and follow guide.

If you want to be more focused on becoming an attentive reader- this book is for you.
If you easily get distracted while reading or never get around reading- this book will motivate you a little.

[Saurabh Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This tiny book packs quite a punch. I started reading it expecting to find a quick tip or two about reading better. But the book itself seems more about life and self improvement through effective and targeted reading. The author explains how it is very important to choose your reading material as per your situation in life. There are many concepts like these in this small but very useful book.
Some people didn't like the author's suggestion regarding selective reading even within a book. But for many books it does work pretty well.

[Phương Nguyễn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book focus 4 main point:
- Seletive focus: Follow Parento and your ability
- Repetition: Reading 1 book many times is more important reading many books once.
- Reading diversity book: It contains Tactics, Classics andautobiographies. Understanding one will help you manage your expectations when reading.
- Gear: Each classifications affect on moment and time to read.

Thoughout the book, the author use standing on the shoulders of the giants style. It help strengthen the trust of his demonstration.

[Anna Jaskiewicz · Rating 2 out of 5]

A very short Kindle read. I wasn’t overly impressed with the speed reading tactics provided considering one tip was to literally just skip any portion of the book you want. However, the author made it explicitly clear this advice was mainly geared toward non-fiction reading so I understand not reading every chapter of a book when you only care about certain topic that only the second half of the book covers.

I did appreciate the shorthand annotation styles he shared. I will definitely use those whether I’m reading fiction or non-fiction books in the future.

[Todd Michael Watts · Rating 1 out of 5]

Disappointment

A dismal read, at best. I found this book to be lacking in helpful instructions. In fact, this could be one of the worst examples of the self-improvement genre.
To make matters worse, the author tends to jump from one subject to another. I would describe his writing style as similar to Jackson Pollock's painting technique - scattered, abstract, without defined structure.
I would not recommend this book.

[Mike Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some Good Techniques to Better Reading

I did enjoy reading this short book on his to become a more efficient reader. I didn't agree with skipping chapters but I did understand his point. I feel you may lose important points in the book even if you weren't looking for them. I feel like I did learn something from this and look forward to setting & increasing my reading goals.

[Ngo Dat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative!

Honestly I got a new point of view on reading. Deliberate reading just makes sense. I used to try speed-reading but kinda failed because I could not feel book that way. Gonna try this new technique on the next book.

[pawan kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deliberate Reading

Good approach for reading as suggested by author. Useful for someone looking to pick up reading as a habit. The 4 steps ie specific focus, repetition, balance and speed sums up the technique of deliberate reading.

[marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read.

An interesting book,that gives you guidance on how to plan your reading. I also like how empathic it was on deliberate reading.(reading only what's necessary).i definitely recommend it to anyone one having trouble setting reading goals/schedule/plans.

[Thanon · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the greatest book, very useful

For those who start reading, it should be top of the list. If I had read this book from my early reading years, it would scale my reading skill and my efficiency.

[Schwah7 Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this book. I had picked it up thinking it was about speed reading. I was pleasantly surprised that is was a book on reading strategy. Lots of great information on how to make your reading more productive with out having to be the speediest reader

[Aakash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Logical, practical and pointed. Perfect for those who want to build a reading habit but are currently struggling to string books together. Tying in reading material to intent, deliberately not reading cover to cover and maintaining a mutable treasure chest of 150 prized books were my key takeaways.

[memray hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, effective roadmap to take my reading to another level!!

Effective tools that I have already started to implement. Can't wait for my re-read of this book and growing my personal library.

[Amna · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was alright. Made the perfectionist in me recoil at the mere suggestion that I don't have to finish a book but oh well. Lol. I will get back to reviewing this book again when and if I apply the techniques mentioned in it.

[David S. Harrelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a source of information to develop your reading skill.

The book outlines the authors viewpoint on the different methods and skills you can use to improve your reading (and understanding) and you can improve.

[Ulrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Useful

I have been a reading specialist for over 48 years and I appreciate this approach to effective reading. Worth the effort.