There are different kinds of written material, and different approaches as a reader or writer to make each one work well.

• Here are examples:
• a novel: probably read straight through. Speedreading is a candidate depending on the need, vs. just relaxing. Skimming sometimes also.
• a news article: one can read from the beginning and stop when the material no longer answers the question in the purpose for reading. Or all, if just to relax.
• a reference and guidebook, such as about Robert's Rules of Order
• an essay on a general topic, whether short or long: see skimming notes elsewhere in this outline
• a scientific paper: see related notes elsewhere in this outline.
• reading ideas for effectiveness and speed