This five-step technique to better reading begins with scanning the text.
Step 1 - scan
- Look at the text quickly. Notice headings, pictures, images and key words to try to get an overall impression.
- Flick backwards and forwards through the pages.
- If there are no pictures or headings, just glance at the first sentence of each paragraph.
Step 2 - question
- Ask questions of the text: Who? What? Where? When? How? Why?
- Read any questions provided in the text or course material.
Step 3 - read
- Read the text in a relaxed, focused, and fairly speedy way. Don't agonise over difficult words or ideas.
- Don't make notes.
Step 4 - remember
- Test your memory - but don't worry if you can't remember much.
- Jot down some points without looking at the text.
Step 5 - review
- Read the text again, taking brief notes.
- Use your own words - look away from the text and imagine you are trying to explain it to a friend, but don't be too informal.