In general, read with an eye toward content extraction rather than to memorize specific details.
- Review the course’s syllabus in its entirety.
- Engage in an analytical reading of portions of the text for argument, context, and purpose.
- This may be more useful for comprehension and retention than reading the whole text.
- Do not read for detail or to memorize.
- Initially, skim the content of the reading.
- Read the abstract, introductory paragraph/section, and conclusion in depth.
- Read the content strategically and tease out the main themes.
- Take notes in your own words. This can help with analyzing and synthesizing information and raising questions about the reading. Avoid lightly paraphrasing or re-arranging phrases from your source material. Using your own words will help you avoid plagiarism.
- Does the reading include a literature review? What does it cover?
- What types of evidence does the reading use?
- Note down your key takeaways.
- Are the key takeaways supported by the reading?
- Do they resonate?