How to Learn to Read as an Adult: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learning to read as an adult can feel daunting, but with the right approach and tools - like the Nardagani Reading Program - you’ll build confidence and fluency faster than you think. This guide walks you through a proven, step-by-step process tailored for struggling readers and ESL learners who want to learn to read effectively.

1. Understand Your Starting Point

Before diving in, take a moment to assess your current reading level:

  • Self‑evaluation quiz: Many adult learners benefit from an initial online reading assessment to identify strengths and gaps.

  • Set realistic goals: Do you want to read a newspaper article, an email, or a short story? Defining clear objectives helps you stay motivated.

Adult learner completing a basic reading skills assessment at a desk with a pencil and paper

An adult learner sits at a desk, focused on completing a basic reading skills assessment using pencil and paper. The setting is calm and supportive, capturing a meaningful step in their literacy journey

2. Learn the 12 Core Nardagani Symbols

The heart of the Nardagani Reading Program is its set of 12 simple symbols that map every English sound (phoneme) to a visual cue. Instead of guessing pronunciation, you’ll see exactly which sound to make when you see a letter or word nardagani.com.

  1. Vowel sounds: Six symbols represent the major vowel sounds.

  2. Consonant sounds: Six symbols cover consonants, including tricky ones like “th” and “ch.”

Why it works:

  • Clarity: No more silent‑letter confusion.

  • Speed: Recognize sounds at a glance, just like removing training wheels on a bike.

Colorful Infographic displaying the 12 Nardagani symbols with corresponding English letters and example sounds

A colorful infographic showing the 12 unique Nardagani phonics symbols, each paired with a corresponding English letter and an example word to illustrate the sound (e.g., “ā” as in “cake”). Designed to help adult learners recognize sounds visually.

3. Practice Phonics with Interactive Exercises

Once you’ve memorized the symbols, reinforce them through guided practice:

  • App games: The Nardagani app features games that quiz you on symbol‑sound matches, helping adult learners to learn to read more efficiently.

  • Flashcards: Digital or paper flashcards help solidify recall.

  • Spelling drills: Build words symbol by symbol, then transition to standard spelling.

Consistency is key, aim for 15–20 minutes of practice daily.

Tablet screen showing a Nardagani phonics game with matching symbols and sounds for adult learners

A tablet screen displaying a Nardagani phonics game for adult learners, where users match visual symbols with spoken English sounds. The interface is clean and interactive, with bright colors and clear prompts for engagement.

4. Start Reading Simple Texts

With phonics skills sharpening, begin reading short, controlled texts:

  • Guided readers: Use Nardagani practice books, which display symbols alongside new words.

  • High‑frequency words: Master the 100 most common English words first - they cover nearly 50% of everyday text.

  • Audio support: Listen to narrated passages while you follow along, reinforcing correct pronunciation.

Tip: Circle any words you still find hard, then decode them with your symbols.

5. Transition to Independent Reading

As you grow more confident:

  1. Remove the symbols: Like taking off training wheels, you’ll find it easier to learn to read independently without relying on symbol overlays.

  2. Choose interest‑based material: Articles on topics you love (travel, cooking, news) will keep you engaged.

  3. Use e‑readers: Tap unfamiliar words for instant pronunciation guides.

Celebrate each milestone - finishing your first article or short story is huge progress!

6. Keep Building Fluency and Comprehension

True reading mastery combines speed with understanding:

  • Timed readings: Track how many words you read per minute and aim to improve.

  • Summarize: After each passage, jot down one sentence summarizing the main idea.

  • Join a community: Connect with other adult learners via online forums or local literacy programs.

Continued practice ensures you don’t lose the gains you’ve made.

Smiling adult learner using the Nardagani reading app on a dualscreen tablet, with the Nardagani avatar appearing beside them as a guide

A smiling adult learner interacts with the Nardagani reading app on a dual-screen tablet. One screen shows a reading lesson, while the other features the friendly Nardagani avatar offering guidance and encouragement.

Why the Nardagani Program Works for Adults

  • Self‑paced learning: The friendly avatar guides you step by step - no classroom pressure.

  • Engaging content: Interactive exercises, practice books, and quizzes keep boredom at bay.

  • Proven success: Learners of all ages and backgrounds report significant improvement within weeks.

By following these steps - assessing your level, mastering symbols, practicing consistently, and gradually increasing difficulty - you’ll finally achieve your goal to learn to read English with confidence.

Also Read
Why English is hard to learn? Rules, Exceptions, and a Smarter Way to Read

Ready to Get Started?

Visit the Nardagani Reading Program to download the app, explore sample lessons, and join thousands of adults who’ve transformed their reading skills.

App Masters Team