Narzullayeva Mukhayo Iftikhor
Moderator 
NARZULLAYEVA MUKHAYO IFTIKHOR
Narzullayeva Mukhayo Iftikhor is a 2nd cycle student of the International Journalism Department of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications of Uzbekistan. Correspondent of the Bu Kun informational program of Zor TV. She was born on May 8, 2006 in Jondar district of Bukhara region. She holds an international certificate in English and a national certificate in Uzbek.
The Difference Between Reading and Comprehending
In the journey of acquiring knowledge and understanding, two fundamental skills—reading and comprehending—often go hand in hand. However, these terms are not synonymous. While they are interrelated, they represent distinct cognitive processes. Understanding the difference between reading and comprehending is essential for anyone striving to enhance their learning and communication skills.
What is Reading?
Reading is the process of recognizing written symbols and decoding them into words, sentences, and paragraphs. It involves the mechanical act of scanning text and converting it into spoken or mental language. At its most basic level, reading does not necessarily require understanding the meaning behind the text. For example, a person can read a foreign language aloud without grasping its significance.
Reading can be thought of as the gateway to comprehension. Without the ability to read, accessing written information becomes impossible. However, reading alone does not guarantee that the reader understands what they are consuming.
What is Comprehending?
Comprehending, or comprehension, goes beyond reading. It involves not only decoding the text but also extracting its meaning, analyzing its context, and relating it to prior knowledge. Comprehension requires active engagement with the material, including asking questions, drawing inferences, and reflecting on the message conveyed.
The Importance of Both
While comprehension is the ultimate goal of reading, the ability to read fluently lays the foundation. A skilled reader who comprehends well can use texts to expand their knowledge, develop critical thinking, and communicate effectively.
Conclusion
Reading and comprehending are two sides of the same coin. Reading provides access to information, while comprehension turns that information into knowledge and insight. Recognizing the distinction between the two enables learners to focus not only on reading fluently but also on understanding deeply, which is key to academic and personal growth.
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