Basic Controls
- Keyboard
- Touch
| 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 |
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
Display Modes
Rapid Reader offers two reading modes, configurable in Settings under the Reading tab.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.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.
Repeat Modes
Control what happens when you reach the end of your content.| Mode | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Off | Playback stops at the end |
| Repeat One | Loops the current read continuously |
| Repeat All | Moves to the next item in your library, then loops back to the first |
R to cycle through repeat modes, or use the repeat button in the control bar.
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.