READING TEXTBOOKS can be a huge drain on your time and energy if you try to read every word. Reading strategically can save you time and help you learn.
TIPS
Pay attention to titles, subtitles and headings. They often provide clues that allow you to grasp key concepts and organize ideas.
Create practice test questions as you read. This is much more effective than highlighting.
Choose the best approach based on the type of information you need:
scan to find a particular piece of information; skim to find the most important information as quickly as possible; focus to find specific or detailed information.
Read in-depth to fully understand the content.
SELF-REFLECTION
How do the concepts covered in a section or chapter connect with previous readings or lectures?
What does your instructor reference the most: textbooks, articles, web sources? Which format is easiest for you to understand?
Which memory strategy works best for you (mnemonics, concept maps, self-tests)?
Survey how the readings connect to your course outline.
Is the textbook a primary source for the course? If so, read it thoroughly.
If the textbook is secondary to lecture notes, focus mainly on the first three steps: survey–question–read.
Ask yourself what you already know about this topic. What concepts would you like to learn more about?
Scan the headings and objectives in the assigned chapters/articles. Look for these key terms:
chapter glossary
summaries
self-tests
Ask Questions:
While scanning your textbook, create questions based on the headings and objectives.
Write down the answers to your questions as you read and learn more.
Read selectively:
Recall: Take a few minutes to recall what you’ve just read; see if you can write a short summary paragraph.
Review: Look over the notes you’ve taken or the parts you’ve highlighted. Review the questions you created and see if you can answer them.
CAMOSUN RESOURCES
If you have an emergency or need personal support after hours, please contact the Vancouver Island Crisis Line at 1-888-494-3888 or call 911.