This paper deals with the problem of reading, considered by the author to be crucial in the translation process. Attention is drawn to the “transformation” and “manipulation” processes taking place in the course of reading for translation. Reading conventions as well as the act of individualization of the text in translation are discussed. The potential traps of misreading and over-interpretation are presented. The paper points to the importance of multiple reading and viewing of the text before the process of translation actually starts, an obvious truth often neglected by the trainee translators. The author of the paper aims to present some practical implications for translation teaching.