RSVP vs. Full Guided Mode: Two Powerful Ways to Speed Read with FastReadi

Not every reading session is the same. Sometimes you need to blaze through an article in minutes. Other times, you want a gentler push that keeps you moving forward without losing the big picture. That's why FastReadi offers two distinct reading modes: RSVP and Full Guided Mode.

In this post, we'll break down how each mode works, when to use them, and how they can work together to make you a faster, more focused reader.

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What Is RSVP Mode?

RSVP (Rapid Serial Visual Presentation) displays text one word or short phrase at a time in a fixed position on your screen. Instead of your eyes scanning across lines, words are delivered directly to your central vision.

In the screenshot above, you can see RSVP in action. The phrase "Imagine standing atop" is displayed center-screen with key letters highlighted in orange. These orange letters mark the Optimal Recognition Point (ORP) — the character your eye naturally fixates on to recognize a word fastest. By aligning every word to its ORP, FastReadi eliminates the need for your eyes to search for the right fixation point, letting you process words faster with less effort.

The progress bar at the top shows how far you've read (0 / 181 words), and the controls at the bottom let you play, pause, restart, or adjust settings like speed.

How It Works

1. Words appear one at a time in the center of the screen
2. Each word is aligned to its Optimal Recognition Point
3. You control the speed — from a relaxed 200 WPM to a blazing 800+ WPM
4. Your eyes stay fixed in one spot, eliminating saccadic eye movements and regression

When to Use RSVP

• Maximizing speed: RSVP is the fastest way to consume text
• Short to medium content: Articles, emails, reports, study notes
• Focus training: The forced pace keeps your mind locked in
• Small screens: RSVP works beautifully on phones since no scrolling is needed

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What Is Full Guided Mode?

Full Guided Mode takes a completely different approach. The entire text is visible on screen — just like a normal book or article — but FastReadi guides your reading by highlighting the current word as it moves through the passage at your chosen speed.

In the screenshot above, you can see the full passage displayed on screen. The word "our" is highlighted, showing exactly where you should be reading. The text flows naturally, and the highlight moves forward at a steady pace, keeping you on track without letting your eyes wander or your mind drift.

This mode preserves the spatial context of traditional reading — you can see sentences before and after the current word — while still giving you the pacing discipline of speed reading.

How It Works

1. The full text is displayed on screen, like a normal reading experience
2. A word-by-word highlight moves through the text at your set speed
3. You follow the highlight, maintaining a consistent pace
4. You can see the surrounding context at all times

When to Use Full Guided Mode

• Longer content: Books, chapters, or lengthy articles where context matters
• Comprehension-heavy material: Technical documents, textbooks, or dense content
• Easing into speed reading: A gentler introduction for beginners
• When you want context: Being able to glance ahead or refer back to a previous sentence

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RSVP vs. Full Guided Mode: A Side-by-Side Comparison

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Using Both Modes Together

The best readers don't pick one mode and stick with it forever. They switch between modes depending on the task:

The Speed-First Workflow

1. Start with RSVP to get through the bulk of your reading list quickly
2. Switch to Full Guided Mode for passages that need deeper understanding
3. Return to RSVP to finish the remaining content

The Comprehension-First Workflow

1. Start with Full Guided Mode for a first pass through complex material
2. Use RSVP for review — revisit key sections at high speed to reinforce retention
3. Repeat as needed before an exam or presentation

The Training Progression

If you're new to speed reading:

1. Week 1-2: Use Full Guided Mode to get comfortable with paced reading
2. Week 3-4: Introduce RSVP at a comfortable speed (250-350 WPM)
3. Month 2+: Gradually increase RSVP speed while using Full Guided Mode for dense content

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Tips for Getting the Most Out of Each Mode

RSVP Tips

• Start slow and build up — there's no shame in starting at 200 WPM
• Use the ORP highlights to train your eyes on optimal fixation points
• Take breaks every 15-20 minutes to avoid fatigue
• Practice with familiar content first before tackling new material

Full Guided Mode Tips

• Resist the urge to read ahead of the highlight — trust the pace
• If comprehension drops, lower the speed rather than stopping entirely
• Use it for your most important reading where understanding matters most
• Let the highlight train your natural reading pace even when reading without the app

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Which Mode Should You Start With?

If you're brand new to speed reading, Full Guided Mode is the perfect starting point. It feels familiar — you can see all the text — but the guided highlight keeps you moving at a consistent pace. It's the bridge between traditional reading and full RSVP.

Once you're comfortable maintaining pace with Full Guided Mode, switch to RSVP and watch your reading speed take off. The discipline you built following the highlight will translate directly into RSVP success.

No matter which mode you choose, you're building a skill that compounds over time. Every session makes you a faster, more focused reader.

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Ready to try both modes? Download FastReadi and experience RSVP and Full Guided Mode for yourself. Your reading will never be the same.