What mental skill is improved through regular reading?

Regular reading significantly enhances comprehension and vocabulary, as it involves the active engagement with language and ideas. When individuals read various texts, they encounter new words and phrases, which helps expand their vocabulary. This exposure not only aids in grasping the meanings of new terms but also in understanding how they are used in different contexts.

Additionally, reading requires the reader to process and understand the information presented, which directly develops comprehension skills. This involves making connections, inferring meanings, and interpreting the underlying themes and messages within the text. The act of decoding and understanding what is read fosters a deeper connection to the material, leading to improved performance in both verbal communication and written expression.

By enhancing comprehension and vocabulary, reading provides both linguistic and cognitive benefits that are foundational for effective communication and ongoing learning. Thus, the answer reflects a critical mental skill that is enhanced through the regular practice of reading.