Break reading into smaller, more manageable tasks – do not read
a text for more than 45 minutes at a time.
If you are reading a textbook…
| Step |
Time |
Action |
| 1 |
30 seconds |
Preview the entire text. What is the title? How are the chapters
set up? Does each chapter have an introduction and conclusion? Is
there a glossary? Are there self-quizzes? Is there an index? Etc… |
| 2 |
2 minutes |
Scan a chapter. Look for the title, subtitles, sub-headings,
charts, graphs, pictures, study questions, review, introduction, summary,
etc. |
| 3 |
2 minutes |
Reflect. What is the main point of this chapter? Name 2-3
major arguments / points made in this chapter. |
| 4 |
15 minutes |
Read. Actively read the material, keeping in mind your instructor’s
lectures and any class notes on the topic. Do NOT highlight or take
notes. Put a small check mark next to important / confusing passages. |
| 4 ½ |
5 minutes |
Take a break. Stand up, walk around, grab a cup of coffee
– just don’t look at the text! |
| 5 |
2:30 minutes |
Reflect on your Reflections. Look over what you wrote down
in Step 3 (Reflect). Were you correct about the main points? If not,
cross out what you wrote in Step 3 and write the correct information.Look
up words you don’t know and write down important vocabulary
words. |
| 6 |
15 minutes |
Re-read & take notes. Keeping your new Reflections in
mind, re-read the chapter looking for answers / support for the main
ideas.Pay extra attention to the check-marked passages. If something
still doesn’t make sense ask your instructor for clarification. |
| 7 |
15 minutes
(2 – 3 days later) |
Review. Get together with a classmate / study group.Write
out possible test questions to quiz yourself and others.Make flashcards.Type
or re-write your notes. |
