Reading program free download - Wise Program Uninstaller, Add Remove Program Cleaner, Vocabulary Program, and many more programs.
Everyone loves to get something for free, but if that something doesn't do what it's supposed to... it's still overpriced. On the other hand, if it's free and it's just what you're looking for, it's like finding money in the street. If you're looking for basic CAD software packages and do not need highly technical functionality, you likely will find all you need, and maybe more, in one of these four quality packages that you can download for free.
AutoCAD Student Version
What We Like
Part of the Autodesk family of modeling applications.
AutoCAD is an industry standard.
What We Don't Like
Watermarking on the free software editions.
Full-featured and more complex than other programs, not newcomer-friendly.
AutoCAD, the heavy hitter of the CAD industry, offers a free, fully functional version for download to students and faculty. The only limitation on the software is a watermark on any plots you generate, designating that the file was created with a non-professional version.
Not only does Autodesk offer its base AutoCAD package free, but it also offers free licenses for almost its entire suite of AEC vertical packages, such as Civil 3DAutoCAD Architecture, and AutoCAD Electrical.
If you're looking to learn CAD or just do some personal design work, this is absolutely the way to go.
Trimble SketchUp
What We Like
Clear features grid comparing paid-versus-free features.
Options for home hobbyists to industry professionals.
What We Don't Like
Pricing model isn't great.
Free feature is web-only with many important features hobbled.
SketchUp was originally developed by Google and was one of the greatest free CAD packages ever put on the market. In 2012, Google sold the product to Trimble. Trimble has enhanced it and developed it further and now offers a slew of related products. Its free version SketchUp Make has plenty of power, but if you need additional functionality, you can buy SketchUp Pro — and pay a hefty price tag.
The interface makes it easy to master the basics. Even if you've never done any CAD work or 3D modeling before, you can pull together some really nice presentations in minutes.
Of course, if you're looking to put out detailed designs with accurate sizing and tolerances, you'll need to spend some time learning the ins and outs of the program. The SketchUp website offers a really impressive array of video and self-paced training options to help you along the way.
FreeCAD
What We Like
Well-supported open source platform.
Ideal for engineering.
Well-optimized for 3D work.
What We Don't Like
Clunky to work with.
2D features aren't great.
FreeCAD is a serious Open Source offering that supports parametric 3D modeling, which means you can modify your design by going back into your model history and changing its parameters. The target market is mostly mechanical engineers and product design, but it's got a lot of functionality and power that anyone would find attractive.
Like many open-source products, it has a loyal base of developers and can compete with some of the commercial heavy hitters because of its ability to create real 3D solids, support for meshes, 2D drafting and lots of other features. Further, it's customizable and is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Ubuntu, and Fedora.
LibreCAD
What We Like
Free and open-source.
Excels at 2D work.
What We Don't Like
Not as strong for 3D work.
The website focuses on stuff that matters to app developers, not to CAD users.
Another Open Source offering, LibreCAD is a high-quality, 2D-CAD modeling platform. LibreCAD grew out of QCAD, and, like FreeCAD, has a large, loyal following of designers and customers.
It includes lots of powerful features that include snap-to-grid for drawing, layers, and measurements. Its user interface and concepts are similar to AutoCAD, so if you have experience with that tool, this should be easy to master.
Best Speed Reading Software 2019 - Programs and Online Courses
We've been testing speed reading software since 2006. Recently, we spent more than 40 hours researching the latest information about speed reading and evaluating the most popular programs. Based on our extensive research, we believe 7 Speed Reading is the best option because it has high-quality video and written tutorials, helpful activities, a large library, and good import options.
7 Speed Reading
This software has thousands of eBooks in its library to practice with, and it gives you periodic tests to see how you are progressing. In addition, it includes helpful eye-training exercises.
Best ValueSpeed Reader-X
If you want to increase your reading speed but don't want to spend a lot of money, consider our best value pick, Speed Reader-X. It costs less than $30 for a one-year family license.
Best for SchoolsAceReader
AceReader comes in individual and family versions and offers educational pricing so an entire class can use it. As such, it's our top pick for schools.
Best Overall
7 Speed Reading
7 Speed Reading is a streamlined, intuitive speed reading program – it's easy to create an account, take a preliminary speed assessment, and begin working on exercises and listening to courses.
The software is our top pick because it's extremely easy to use and includes so many resources. The program is divided into training courses and practice exercises, so you divide your time between learning about speed reading and practicing it. This software's training exercises focus on improving your speed by training your eyes and your memory. During these exercises, 7 Speed Reading flashes phrases on the screen, which teaches your brain to read by grouping words together rather than by focusing on them individually. The program comes with a built-in library of over 20,000 eBooks you can use during training. You can also import PDFs and entire webpages to practice your speed reading – for example, you can upload and practice with material you need to read for work or school. The software lets you customize font and text size so you don't strain your eyes, and you can adjust the reading speed so you can still comprehend the text. This software is more expensive than several other programs we tested, and your license expires after 10 years. However, that should be more than enough time to increase your reading speed. Also, you can install the program on an unlimited number of computers.
Best Value
Speed Reader-X
Speed Reader-X is the cheapest software we tested, and it includes lessons, activities and tests to help you increase your reading speed. You pay for a yearly subscription and can add an unlimited number of users to one account, making it great for families.
Speed Reader-X starts by having you take a test to determine your baseline speed. As you complete the program's exercises and learn from its instruction, you take more speed tests to see your progress. This software includes eye-training exercises and exercises that widen your field of vision so you can read faster. Speed Reader-X's premium version comes preloaded with 17,000 eBooks – the second largest library of the programs we tested. When you practice, you can change the speed at which words flash on the screen as well as adjust the font and text size to make the words easier to read. This software looks outdated and isn't particularly easy to use. Nonetheless, if you want to start speed reading without investing much in a program, Speed Reader-X is the best choice.
Best for Schools
AceReader
Free Reading Software For Adults
AceReader has plans for schools, families and individuals. Also, it offers educational pricing, and its dashboard lets teachers monitor their students' progress and the material they read for practice. As such, it's a good option for teachers who want to include speed reading in their curriculum.
This software doesn't install on your computer – instead, you access it online, so it works well on mobile devices. Its library only includes around 47 eBooks to study and practice with, but some of the texts cover SAT prep and history. Additionally, this program has over 200 training activities that teach students speed reading strategies. With AceReader Elite, students can email their test scores to their teacher, and teachers can create classes and view reports. Reports show reading comprehension scores, test results, word-per-minute speed and other stats. Teachers can also import content for their students to read, and AceReader displays the material's grade level so you know your students are reading appropriately difficult text.
Best Speed Reading Course
Iris Reading
Iris Reading is one of the few programs we reviewed that's more of an online learning course than software.
Rather than use digital games or activities to improve your eyes' span and increase rapid eye movement, it has a series of videos that describe how to begin speed reading with materials you encounter every day such as assigned texts for class or books. The CEO provides much of the instruction in a series of videos that were recorded in a classroom setting. Of the programs we reviewed, we were the most impressed with the quality of Iris' video production. While there aren't digital activities embedded in the software, Iris recommends some printable activities and tests you can use to track your progress. It also links to a free tachistoscope program online, which can flash copied text at your desired words-per-minute goal. We think the course is more reasonably priced than Rev it Up Reading, despite the latter's inclusion of a few more digital activities. If you're interested in this program, check out the course Iris has set up with Lynda.com. It's a better value because you can access dozens of other helpful courses like the one you find at Iris.
Best for College Students
eyeQ
In addition to offering speed reading and mental comprehension and retention exercises, eyeQ has a number of courses designed specifically to help students with test preparation, making it one of the best programs for students preparing to go to, or already in, college.
EyeQ is easily the most up-to-date and easy-to-navigate software we tested, but that might be because it has simple offerings. There's a daily activity you complete as well as some reporting features. We like that each session is brief and easy to sneak into your day. We also found several games throughout the program designed to help increase response time and field of vision. Of the programs we tested, eyeQ is the best for teenagers or even students slightly younger. You can earn badges, and there's specific programming for school-age children. We would have liked to have seen a few more features, but its monthly payment plan and free trial allow you to test those it has to see if it's the best fit for improving your speed reading.
Reading Software For Adults
Why Trust Us
Since 2006, we've reviewed the latest and most popular speed reading software. We've tested and compared these programs to find out which can improve your reading speed the most.
We didn't test the multitude of free apps, such as Spritz and Amazon Fire's Word Runner, that help you speed read by flashing text from articles and books on the screen. Instead, we reviewed downloadable and online speed reading software with exercises and instruction that help you improve your eye muscle movement with daily workouts.
We also spent time researching speed reading to gather the latest information about the topic from the scientific community. Learning more about speed reading helped us evaluate which programs make reasonable claims about improving speed.
How Much Does Speed Reading Software Cost?
Some programs only require a one-time download fee, though they often have a bit less connectivity than others. You access other programs by paying for a subscription that lasts several days, months or even years. While programs you pay for outright are often cheaper, we found that subscription software usually has more up-to-date features and can help you achieve your goals quickly. The programs we tested range in price from hundreds of dollars to less than $20 a month. We recommend you pay no more than $100 total, whether you opt for a subscription course or a one-time download.
How We Tested
After downloading each software, we compared its features to those in the other programs we reviewed. We paid special attention to how many people can use the software as well as how many computers you can install it on. We preferred online programs because they are easier to access, and you can use them anywhere you have an internet connection.
We also considered the number of activities and exercises each software includes. Programs with a variety of activities, eye fixation exercises and a tachistoscope are best, and a few even include test preparation and memory improvement add-ons.
It includes lots of powerful features that include snap-to-grid for drawing, layers, and measurements. Its user interface and concepts are similar to AutoCAD, so if you have experience with that tool, this should be easy to master.
Best Speed Reading Software 2019 - Programs and Online Courses
We've been testing speed reading software since 2006. Recently, we spent more than 40 hours researching the latest information about speed reading and evaluating the most popular programs. Based on our extensive research, we believe 7 Speed Reading is the best option because it has high-quality video and written tutorials, helpful activities, a large library, and good import options.
7 Speed Reading
This software has thousands of eBooks in its library to practice with, and it gives you periodic tests to see how you are progressing. In addition, it includes helpful eye-training exercises.
Best ValueSpeed Reader-X
If you want to increase your reading speed but don't want to spend a lot of money, consider our best value pick, Speed Reader-X. It costs less than $30 for a one-year family license.
Best for SchoolsAceReader
AceReader comes in individual and family versions and offers educational pricing so an entire class can use it. As such, it's our top pick for schools.
Best Overall
7 Speed Reading
7 Speed Reading is a streamlined, intuitive speed reading program – it's easy to create an account, take a preliminary speed assessment, and begin working on exercises and listening to courses.
The software is our top pick because it's extremely easy to use and includes so many resources. The program is divided into training courses and practice exercises, so you divide your time between learning about speed reading and practicing it. This software's training exercises focus on improving your speed by training your eyes and your memory. During these exercises, 7 Speed Reading flashes phrases on the screen, which teaches your brain to read by grouping words together rather than by focusing on them individually. The program comes with a built-in library of over 20,000 eBooks you can use during training. You can also import PDFs and entire webpages to practice your speed reading – for example, you can upload and practice with material you need to read for work or school. The software lets you customize font and text size so you don't strain your eyes, and you can adjust the reading speed so you can still comprehend the text. This software is more expensive than several other programs we tested, and your license expires after 10 years. However, that should be more than enough time to increase your reading speed. Also, you can install the program on an unlimited number of computers.
Best Value
Speed Reader-X
Speed Reader-X is the cheapest software we tested, and it includes lessons, activities and tests to help you increase your reading speed. You pay for a yearly subscription and can add an unlimited number of users to one account, making it great for families.
Speed Reader-X starts by having you take a test to determine your baseline speed. As you complete the program's exercises and learn from its instruction, you take more speed tests to see your progress. This software includes eye-training exercises and exercises that widen your field of vision so you can read faster. Speed Reader-X's premium version comes preloaded with 17,000 eBooks – the second largest library of the programs we tested. When you practice, you can change the speed at which words flash on the screen as well as adjust the font and text size to make the words easier to read. This software looks outdated and isn't particularly easy to use. Nonetheless, if you want to start speed reading without investing much in a program, Speed Reader-X is the best choice.
Best for Schools
AceReader
Free Reading Software For Adults
AceReader has plans for schools, families and individuals. Also, it offers educational pricing, and its dashboard lets teachers monitor their students' progress and the material they read for practice. As such, it's a good option for teachers who want to include speed reading in their curriculum.
This software doesn't install on your computer – instead, you access it online, so it works well on mobile devices. Its library only includes around 47 eBooks to study and practice with, but some of the texts cover SAT prep and history. Additionally, this program has over 200 training activities that teach students speed reading strategies. With AceReader Elite, students can email their test scores to their teacher, and teachers can create classes and view reports. Reports show reading comprehension scores, test results, word-per-minute speed and other stats. Teachers can also import content for their students to read, and AceReader displays the material's grade level so you know your students are reading appropriately difficult text.
Best Speed Reading Course
Iris Reading
Iris Reading is one of the few programs we reviewed that's more of an online learning course than software.
Rather than use digital games or activities to improve your eyes' span and increase rapid eye movement, it has a series of videos that describe how to begin speed reading with materials you encounter every day such as assigned texts for class or books. The CEO provides much of the instruction in a series of videos that were recorded in a classroom setting. Of the programs we reviewed, we were the most impressed with the quality of Iris' video production. While there aren't digital activities embedded in the software, Iris recommends some printable activities and tests you can use to track your progress. It also links to a free tachistoscope program online, which can flash copied text at your desired words-per-minute goal. We think the course is more reasonably priced than Rev it Up Reading, despite the latter's inclusion of a few more digital activities. If you're interested in this program, check out the course Iris has set up with Lynda.com. It's a better value because you can access dozens of other helpful courses like the one you find at Iris.
Best for College Students
eyeQ
In addition to offering speed reading and mental comprehension and retention exercises, eyeQ has a number of courses designed specifically to help students with test preparation, making it one of the best programs for students preparing to go to, or already in, college.
EyeQ is easily the most up-to-date and easy-to-navigate software we tested, but that might be because it has simple offerings. There's a daily activity you complete as well as some reporting features. We like that each session is brief and easy to sneak into your day. We also found several games throughout the program designed to help increase response time and field of vision. Of the programs we tested, eyeQ is the best for teenagers or even students slightly younger. You can earn badges, and there's specific programming for school-age children. We would have liked to have seen a few more features, but its monthly payment plan and free trial allow you to test those it has to see if it's the best fit for improving your speed reading.
Reading Software For Adults
Why Trust Us
Since 2006, we've reviewed the latest and most popular speed reading software. We've tested and compared these programs to find out which can improve your reading speed the most.
We didn't test the multitude of free apps, such as Spritz and Amazon Fire's Word Runner, that help you speed read by flashing text from articles and books on the screen. Instead, we reviewed downloadable and online speed reading software with exercises and instruction that help you improve your eye muscle movement with daily workouts.
We also spent time researching speed reading to gather the latest information about the topic from the scientific community. Learning more about speed reading helped us evaluate which programs make reasonable claims about improving speed.
How Much Does Speed Reading Software Cost?
Some programs only require a one-time download fee, though they often have a bit less connectivity than others. You access other programs by paying for a subscription that lasts several days, months or even years. While programs you pay for outright are often cheaper, we found that subscription software usually has more up-to-date features and can help you achieve your goals quickly. The programs we tested range in price from hundreds of dollars to less than $20 a month. We recommend you pay no more than $100 total, whether you opt for a subscription course or a one-time download.
How We Tested
After downloading each software, we compared its features to those in the other programs we reviewed. We paid special attention to how many people can use the software as well as how many computers you can install it on. We preferred online programs because they are easier to access, and you can use them anywhere you have an internet connection.
We also considered the number of activities and exercises each software includes. Programs with a variety of activities, eye fixation exercises and a tachistoscope are best, and a few even include test preparation and memory improvement add-ons.
Many programs come with eBooks and other texts to read during the exercises and as you practice. We counted the number of eBooks in each software to see which offers the best value overall. We also considered whether you can import your own content into the program. That way, you can read material you're interested while you practice.
Does Speed Reading Really Work?
Over the years, some incredible claims have been made about how quickly humans can read. Reports of American presidents, such as John F. Kennedy, reading at speeds over 1,000 words per minute have perpetuated the creation of online and correspondence courses as well as seminars. There are even a few competitions where readers clock incredible speeds. However, according to most of the research we found, the average human's comprehension drops off precipitously at about 600 words per minute. Olga Khazan, a writer for The Atlantic, reported, 'in the World Championship Speed Reading Competition, top contestants read about 1,000 to 2,000 words per minute, but they only understand about half of what they take in.'
Another article from the Guardian states most readers average a pace of about 250 to 300 words a minute. Most of the programs we reviewed guarantee a two- to three-times increase in speed. While it's possible to increase your reading speed, we'd hesitate to use any programs that make claims about speeds over 1,000 words per minute – if you reach such speeds, you should be aware of how it impacts the amount of information you retain. That's why we think comprehension tests, like the ones you find in the very best speed reading software, are so important as you train.
Is Speed Reading Software Popular?
Reading, whether for work or pleasure, has long been popular. However, over the past 70 years, there has been increasing interest in speed reading thanks to the ever-growing amount of news, books and other types of information we take in daily. Many people feel as though there is simply too much to take in at a normal pace or that they can't read everything they need to in a timely manner.
With speed reading software, it is possible to learn to balance faster reading speeds with comprehension and retention. This software also teaches good reading habits, such as how to skim or look for rhythm, and can help reduce or eliminate bad habits like subvocalization. Most of these programs are easy to use, and it doesn't take long to get a feel for how they work and to get in the habit of using your new skills to speed through whatever text is in front of you.
People are increasingly turning to speed reading applications to get through all the text thrown at them every day. These programs help people get through all the daily news, social media posts, emails and books they need to. If you've set a resolution to read more books this year, speed reading software is a great way to get the assistance you need to meet your goal.
How Do You Become a Speed Reader?
The programs we tested use eye exercises, tests and practice materials to overcome some of the natural habits we develop while reading. For example, many focus on eliminating regression, or rereading passages you've already read. They also target subvocalization, where you sound out the words in your mind. Both habits can slow a reader down. Many of the programs use eye exercises to help you reduce fixation, or the amount of time you need to spend on a word before you move on.
Each program contains different instructions about how to best uses its exercises. We liked programs that offer daily instruction lasting only a few minutes at a time.
