What is the most important factor in improving reading skills?

Daily reading and practice is one of the most important factors in improving reading skills. Reading frequently makes it possible to practice reading more quickly, while still paying attention to the content of the text. Reading aloud is also helpful in this process, since it improves cognitive understanding of how sounds blend.

Other ways to improve reading skills are to promote participation in a wide variety of reading activities, take children to the library, and become informed about students' expected reading level. All of these practices reinforce positive reading habits, like concentrating on words and taking them as a whole rather than sub-vocalizing.