noun a reading or performance done without any prior preparation or rehearsal
Cold reading is a technique used by mentalists and psychics to make high-probability guesses or statements about a person without prior knowledge, often leading the person to believe the reader has special abilities.
Journalists may use cold reading to quickly assess the credibility of sources or gather information during interviews.
In the entertainment industry, cold reading is commonly used by actors auditioning for roles to quickly analyze and perform a script with little preparation.
Cold reading can be used in market research to quickly gather insights from participants in focus groups or surveys.
Cold reading techniques are sometimes employed by salespeople to quickly build rapport with potential clients by making educated guesses about their needs and preferences.
Some therapists use cold reading techniques to quickly establish a connection with clients and gather information about their emotional state.
Writers may use cold reading techniques to create more realistic and believable characters in their stories by accurately guessing thoughts and emotions.
Psychologists may use cold reading techniques to build rapport with clients and make them feel understood and validated during therapy sessions.
Salespeople may use cold reading techniques to quickly establish a connection with potential customers and tailor their sales pitch to match the customer's preferences and needs.
Magicians may use cold reading techniques to create the illusion of mind-reading or psychic abilities during their performances, adding an element of mystery and intrigue.
Actors may use cold reading techniques to quickly analyze a script and deliver a convincing performance on the spot, without much preparation or rehearsal.