What is meant by automaticity in reading?

Automaticity in reading refers to the ability to perform reading tasks with both accuracy and speed, allowing the reader to process text effortlessly. When a reader achieves automaticity, they can recognize words quickly and accurately without needing to consciously decode each word. This fluency in reading enables better comprehension, as the cognitive load is reduced, allowing the reader to focus on understanding the material rather than on the mechanics of reading itself.

In this context, combining accuracy with a rapid reading rate is essential for effective reading. Without this combination, readers may struggle to keep pace with the narrative or content, potentially hindering their overall understanding. Hence, the emphasis on both aspects—accuracy and rate—reflects why this answer effectively represents the concept of automaticity in reading.