Pre-Read "Pause"

Hey Reader,

As voice actors, we are often asked to deliver reads that sound "natural," "conversational," or "spontaneous." The biggest obstacle to achieving this is the fact that we are reading. Our eyes move faster than our brains can process the meaning, which can sometimes lead to a smooth but ultimately robotic delivery.

Something that may help you with this, is a subtle Pre-Read Pause.

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What Is the Pre-Read Pause?

The Pre-Read Pause is a strategic moment of silence just before a key phrase, idea, or even a single word. Its job is to simulate the spontaneous thought process of someone speaking off-the-cuff.

Instead of reading the script as one continuous block, you use the pause to "manufacture" a moment where your brain appears to be forming the thought. This makes the following words sound like they are being spoken for the very first time, giving your read an authentic, unscripted feeling.

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How to Apply It

Look for the most important word or phrase in the sentence—the one the client really wants the listener to remember.

As you approach the word, consciously inhale and drop your focus to really commit to the meaning of the upcoming words. The pause should be brief—think half a beat, sometimes even less—but it must be intentional.

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Example in Action

Consider this line for a car commercial:

A typical read might rush past the payoff. Using the Pre-Read Pause, you might read it like this:

The brief pause before "feeling completely refreshed" forces the listener (and you!) to slow down and internalize the payoff, making the final phrase land with more weight and authenticity.

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The Pre-Read Pause transforms your voice from simply reciting words to actively thinking them. Use it to place the emphasis exactly where it belongs, giving your conversational reads that desirable, spontaneous texture.

-Michael

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