Like it or not being able to read and retain what you read is an essential skill when it comes to education. Most students, I am no exception; try to get away with the least amount of reading possible if they, in fact, read the necessary materials at all! So, when I came across this article written by Sam Zolin on tips to reading effectively I wanted to share.
Check out his article for more details on each tip, but here is a short summary:
Tip #1 – Start early
If you know you read slower than most or have a lot on your plate at the moment, don’t wait until the day (or night) before to start reading an assignment. You have no chance of comprehending what you’re reading and so it becomes a waste of time. Start a few days in advance and do a little at a time.
Tip #2 – Skim
Pretty simple concept. Skim the article/assignment to highlight the main points and take notes then go back and actually read the assignment. It helps to organize your thoughts while you’re reading for better comprehension. Then, after reading, go back and skim again just to review and help retain what you’ve read.
Tip #3 – Vocabulary
Keep a dictionary handy while you’re reading. Everyone comes across a word or two that they don’t understand while reading an assignment so being able to look it up and learn the meaning will keep you from getting lost in the reading.
Tip #4 – Notes
Take notes while you’re reading on a separate sheet of paper or type them up in a document. Not only will this help come review time, but also helps to retain what you’ve read by re-writing the major concepts in your own words.
Tip #5 – Stop!
Have you ever been to a conference or attended a seminar where the speaker went on and on for hours about one topic? It’s really hard to pay attention, isn’t it? It’s the same with reading, so learn when to take a break. If you find yourself re-reading the same sentence over and over again, stop! Break up the reading and make it manageable.
Tip #6 – Study Buddies
Find a fellow classmate that which you can discuss the assignment. You’ll be able to discuss what you’ve read which helps with retention and possibly gain new insights in the assignment from your friend’s perspective on the reading.
Tip #7 – Practice, Practice, Practice!
We all know the saying “Practice makes perfect” and it’s true in reading as well. The more you read, the faster you’ll read and the more you’ll retain at that fast pace. So, pick up a good book and read for pleasure every once in a while. When the topic is something you find interesting you’ll find yourself breezing through the book yet still understanding and remembering the plot. Practicing this way will help a lot when you have to dig into that next assignment.
Do you have any other tips or tricks to help with reading assignments? What has worked for you?