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Rapid Reader gives you precise control over your reading experience. Whether you prefer keyboard shortcuts, touch gestures, or on-screen controls, you can adjust speed, navigate content, and customize display modes to match your reading style.

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Basic Controls

| Action | Shortcut | |--------|----------| | Play / Pause | Space | | Stop (exit focus mode) | Enter | | Increase speed (+25 WPM) | Up Arrow or K | | Decrease speed (-25 WPM) | Down Arrow or J | | Skip forward one word | Right Arrow or L | | Skip backward one word | Left Arrow or H | | Cycle repeat mode | R | | Save progress | Ctrl/Cmd + S |
The progress bar at the bottom shows your position in the text. Click or tap anywhere on it to jump to that location instantly.

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Speed Control

Adjust your reading speed from 50 to 1000 words per minute. The current WPM displays in the control bar during playback.
  • Start slow: Begin around 200-300 WPM when learning RSVP
  • Build gradually: Increase by 25 WPM as comprehension feels natural
  • Find your rhythm: Most readers settle between 400-600 WPM for comfortable reading
Speed changes take effect immediately without interrupting playback.

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Display Modes

Rapid Reader offers two reading methods, configurable in Settings under the Reading tab.

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RSVP Mode

The classic single-word display. Words appear one at a time with the Optimal Recognition Point (ORP) highlighted in red. This mode maximizes focus and eliminates eye movement entirely.

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Chunking Mode

Displays multiple words at once (3, 5, or 7 words). This mode feels more natural for readers transitioning from traditional reading and can improve context retention for complex material.
Centered ORP — Enable this option in settings to position each word or chunk so the focal point stays fixed in the center of the display, reducing eye movement even further.

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Repeat Modes

Control what happens when you reach the end of your content.
ModeBehavior
OffPlayback stops at the end
Repeat OneLoops the current read continuously
Repeat AllMoves to the next item in your library, then loops back to the first
Press R to cycle through repeat modes, or use the repeat button in the control bar.

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Platform Differences

Desktop & Web

Full keyboard control with all shortcuts. Use the mouse to click controls or seek in the progress bar.

Mobile

Touch-optimized interface. Tap to play/pause, use on-screen controls for speed and navigation.

Chrome Extension

Same keyboard controls as desktop. Works on any webpage with selected text.

Raycast

Quick access via Raycast commands. Sends content directly to the web or desktop app.

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Next Steps

Keyboard Shortcuts

Master all available shortcuts for faster navigation

Customizing Appearance

Adjust fonts, colors, and visual settings