Good readers rely more on which approach than decoding every word aloud?

• A. Decoding every word
• B. Contextual and strategic reading
• C. Memorizing vocabulary
• D. Skipping difficult words

Answer: (B)

Using context clues and reading strategically helps readers derive meaning without needing to pronounce every word aloud. When readers rely on contextual information from surrounding sentences, paragraph structure, and prior knowledge, they can infer unfamiliar word meanings and understand how ideas connect. They also monitor their understanding as they go, adjust strategies when confusion arises, and focus on the overall message rather than laboring over each pronunciation. Decoding every word aloud can slow reading and interrupt fluency, making it harder to grasp the bigger idea, especially with complex or irregular words. While knowing vocabulary is helpful, it isn’t enough on its own to ensure comprehension within a passage. Skipping difficult words can leave gaps in meaning. By combining context, prediction, summarization, and strategic adjustments, readers maintain comprehension across varied texts.