AceReader - Top Rated Speed Reading Software

AceReader Pro can quickly help you overcome barriers that slow you down like sub-vocalization (the sounding out of words in your head) and regression. This powerful speed reading software includes over 250 comprehension tests and 13 levels of testing, and the ability to add your own text.

Our first reaction to this product is "WOW!" The primary reviewer of this product progressed from about 520 words per minute to nearly 1300 words per minute with 100% comprehension within 24 hours of using this product. Granted, our reviewer/editor may have a bit of an advantage, but if we saw results this fast and impressive using AceReader, imagine what it can do for the average reader.

Imagine flying through complex textbooks and instruction guides with full comprehension in half the time. We feel this product can help you achieve this goal in a short period of time as long as you stick to the recommended 15 to 25 minutes training sessions.

Since the last time we reviewed this speed reading program, StepWare has added some useful improvements, including the ability to display/flash graphics load PDF and Word documents (it works with documents created in Word 2007).* They also added easy to use page forward and back buttons, and they now offer a Triple Reading speed program in the Pro Deluxe version. The Pro Deluxe version also contains college and SAT prep vocabulary exercises.

Standout Features:

• 260 comprehension tests
• 13 levels from 1st grade through adult
• Mac and PC versions offered
• Free 30 day trial version
• School, network and Spanish language editions available
• Pro Deluxe includes many customization options
• Free email and telephone customer and technical support

Feature Set (Score: 100%):

For the purpose of this review, we focused on the AceReader Pro version of this reading software, since it contains all the features we wanted. The additional features offered by Pro Deluxe are enticing and practical, but, in reality, StepWare's Pro version a great product, even without all those extra features. However, if you are looking for college and SAT prep tools, and amped up speed reading exercises, Pro Deluxe is worth checking out.

This speed reading software includes three main sections: the course mode, the menu mode and the expert mode.

The course mode offers a list of offers a list tests, drills and games that support your personal reading goal. It must be completed in order, so you progress through the program as it is designed.

The menu mode allows you to pick the type of practice you want. For example, you can choose to take a comprehension test to set your current reading speed level, or perform drills or eye-span exercises.

The expert mode lets you upload your own text, and set your own pace and how you want the text to be displayed. We highly recommend this mode. It will allow you to enter your own text, so you can practice reading any content you want, which can make reading more enjoyable for you.

AceReader Pro also offers administrative functions for the user or for teachers in a class room setting. These tools can be used to alter default settings, such as speed of text displayed and the content. This reading program also provides easy to understand reports for monitoring progress.

Beyond helping you overcome sub-vocalization and regression, which are common problems for most readers. This software is also capable of helping you tackle other types of reading challenges, such as low vision, ESL and dyslexia.

We liked how most of the exercises were adjustable. For example, you can adjust the speed of the comprehension tests. We are not sure how fast you can set it, but we tested it at 4000 words per minute, and the program could handle that quiet well. You can also adjust the speed to characters per minute or second, and alter how the text displays.

Additional features included in AceReader Pro Deluxe:

• College and SAT prep vocabulary flash cards
• Triple reading speed course
• Multi-users supported
• Customizable tests, drills and games

There are also Business, School and Network versions available that will support multiple users and computers.

Ease of Use (Score: 100%):

As adults, we found this reading program straightforward and easy to use. Each exercise comes with its own set of easy to understand instructions. You can restart most drills and exercises if become confused, or want to reread the instructions.

However, the instructions may be a bit confusing to first or second graders. They may need some guidance initially, but, once they understand the basic concepts, they should be able to get through the program rather easily.

Ease of Installation/Setup (Score: 100%):

We downloaded the review version of AceReader Pro through a download link. With a broadband connection running Mozilla Firefox and Windows XP, the program downloaded extremely quickly.

Setting up the reading program to begin exercises is also simple. You just look through their quick overview, and take a comprehension test to determine your starting point and end goal. The quick overview is new to this version, and is quite helpful for those that are new to using this type of software.

Help/Support (Score: 100%):

StepWare offers excellent support by email, toll-free telephone, fax, and snail mail. The fact they said in their FAQs section that they have never turned down a support request, regardless of purchase date, impressed us. On their website, it says they offer 90 days of free support.

They also have quick start guides included in the embedded help pages, user manuals and tutorials readily available along with reading tips, advice on how to use the program and technical information. We found the help pages easy to understand and useful.

Summary:

Check out the free trial and see for yourself what we experienced with AceReader Pro. We think you will notice a great improvement in your reading speed and comprehension, and quickly understand the value of how this speed reading software could enrich your life. Whether you need to read volumes of text, complex reports or the hottest novel, nothing is out of reach when you use AceReader Pro.