Tony Mowbray saw Sunderland win for the second time in his three-games in charge thanks to three excellent team goals at Reading.
A poor first half came to life when Patrick Roberts scored twice in just under two minutes shortly before the break after two impressive counter-attacks.
The Black Cats sealed the win with another superb passing move which saw Jack Clarke finish with a confident strike midway through the second half.
Clarke should have made it 4-0 but he lifted an effort wide of the far post after being put through by Amad Diallo with nine minutes left.