Speed Reader (FocusFlow)

A customizable speed reading application built with Python and Tkinter that helps users improve their reading speed while maintaining comprehension.

Features

Core Functionality

• Adjustable reading speed (100-1000 WPM)
• Variable word grouping (1-5 words at a time)
• Text file loading support
• Pause/Resume/Stop controls
• Progress tracking with time remaining

Advanced Reading Features

• Dynamic font sizing based on window dimensions
• Focus point indicator for optimal word recognition
• Intelligent timing adjustments:
  • Variable delays based on word length
  • Automatic pauses at punctuation marks
  • Special handling for longer words and complex punctuation
• Text preprocessing for better readability

User Interface

• Minimalist reading mode
• Full control panel for settings
• Progress bar
• Responsive design that adapts to window size
• Dark theme for reduced eye strain

Screenshots

Here are some screenshots showcasing the Speed Reader application:

Installation

1. Ensure you have Python 3.6 or later installed on your system.
2. Install the required dependencies:

pip install tkinter

Note: Tkinter usually comes with Python installations by default.

Usage

Running the Program

1. Navigate to the program directory
2. Run the program:

python speed_reader.py

Basic Controls

• Start: Begin reading the loaded text
• Pause/Continue: Temporarily stop reading and show control panel
• Stop: End the reading session
• Load Text: Open a text file for reading

Reading Settings

• WPM Slider: Adjust reading speed from 100 to 1000 words per minute
• Words per Display: Choose how many words to show at once (1-5)

Advanced Features

• The focus point indicator (▼) helps guide your eyes to the optimal reading position
• Longer words and punctuation marks automatically adjust the reading speed
• Window can be resized to adjust text display size

Tips for Effective Use

1. Start Slow: Begin with lower WPM settings (200-300) and gradually increase speed
2. Use the Focus Point: Keep your eyes on the focus indicator for better comprehension
3. Word Grouping: Start with single words and increase grouping as you improve
4. Take Breaks: Speed reading can be mentally intensive; take regular breaks
5. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice will help improve reading speed and comprehension

Customization

The program includes several customizable features:

• Punctuation delays can be adjusted in the code
• Word length thresholds for timing adjustments
• Focus point positioning
• Color scheme and fonts
• Window size and text scaling

Technical Details

Built using:

• Python 3.x
• Tkinter for GUI
• Threading for smooth performance
• Regular expressions for text processing

Known Limitations

• Currently only supports plain text (.txt) files
• Number-to-word conversion is limited
• Maximum window size depends on screen resolution

Contributing

Feel free to fork this project and submit pull requests for any improvements:

• Additional file format support
• Enhanced text processing features
• UI/UX improvements
• Performance optimizations

License

This project is open source and available under the MIT License.

Acknowledgments

• Built with accessibility and user experience in mind
• Inspired by various speed reading techniques and research
• Thanks to the Python and Tkinter communities