Comprehension Quote by Richard Mitchell
““Only in some very special cases is comprehension the point of reading--in things like recipes and "reading material." The point of reading is understanding, and comprehension is to understanding as getting wet is to swimming. You must do the one before you can hope to do the other, but you don't do the other simply because you do the one.””
About This Quote
Reading should aim for comprehension; understanding is the foundation that enables deeper insight, just as learning to swim is prerequisite to enjoying the water.
In simple terms: Understanding precedes deeper insight.
Key Takeaway
Focus on grasping meaning first.
Themes
reading
comprehension
learning
knowledge
education
Mood
analytical
educational
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- studying
- research
- self‑education
- teaching
Key Concepts
Cognitive development
information processing
literacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What strategies improve true comprehension?
- How can you test your understanding?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on surface reading limits depth.
