Skimming vs. Scanning

synonyms

This time, we're gonna learn all about the differences between these two words. Still interested in gaining more knowledge? Come on.

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both are reading techniques that involve quickly moving your eyes down a particular text. However, 'skimming' is to get a quick understanding of what a text is generally saying. 'Scanning', contrariwise, refers to searching a text in order to find specific details.

Differences

As mentioned above, 'skimming' involves moving your eyes quickly over a text to get what the text is mainly about. Look at the following examples:

You have 1 minute to skim the text and tell me what it's about.

One of the useful techniques that you must learn in order to be successful when taking the IELTS exam is to skim the reading passages first.

'Scanning' is also a technique to move your eyes quickly over a text. However, there is a difference: you scan a text when you want to find specific details in a short time. Check out the examples below:

Scanning is the second important technique you must learn when reading the IELTS reading passages.

Jane scanned the text but found nothing.

Similarities

Both are reading techniques that involve using your eyes quickly over a particular text. Look at the examples below:

She asked for a moment to skim the article in the newspaper.

As he scanned the text, his eyes widened.

Are They Interchangeable?

As it was explained clearly, these two are different reading techniques with different aims. So, they cannot be used interchangeably. Both examples below are correct but tey have different meanings. Compare:

✓ As you can see, you must scan the passage quickly and find the details you are asked about.

✓ As you can see, you must skim the passage quickly and find the details you are asked about.

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