On a test for predicting success in reading skill development: Anatomy of the RAN Task

Reading is a fundamental ability required of everyone by modern society. To become literate is the first step to all other academic achievements, and to be illiterate or a poor reader can result in life-long professional barriers and social challenges. No wonder, then, that so many psychologists, educators, and health professionals share in their determination to learn more about the factors associated with success and failure in reading development. Their goals are to determine, in a timely manner, who is at risk of developing reading problems and to devise efficient ways to either prevent or to overcome reading impairments.