What does it mean to decode a text?

Decoding a text involves the process of translating written symbols, such as letters and words, into spoken language or meaningful ideas. This fundamental skill is essential for reading comprehension, as it allows readers to recognize letters and words, understand their sounds, and comprehend their meanings. Decoding is not just about sounding out words; it also includes understanding how these words fit together to convey messages, themes, or ideas in a text.

Effective decoding enables readers to engage with the text at a deeper level, as they can grasp its content and context, which is vital for further analyses, discussions, and personal interpretations. This foundational skill supports further literacy development, including skills like summarization and understanding the author’s purpose, which come later in the reading process.