Improving reading rate prediction with word length information: Evidence from Dutch

Previous research in English has suggested that reading rate predictions can be improved considerably by taking average word length into account. In this study, we investigated whether the same regularity holds for Dutch. The Dutch language is very similar to English, but words are on half a letter longer: 5.1 letters per (in non-fiction) instead of 4.6. We collected rates 62 participants 12 texts with varying lengths and examined which change equation accounts findings. observed were close best-fitting curve as soon was replaced length. predicts an will read at 238 minute (wpm). Texts 4.5 270 wpm, 6.0 202 wpm. findings line assumption longer do not slow down silent relative effect each due processing effort low-level visual factors.