General Reading Tips: Improve Your Reading

When trying to understand difficult readings, try the A4 Method (Approach, Acknowledge, Adopt and Assign).

Approach the assignment with an open mind - don't prejudge the reading as too difficult, boring, irrelevant or complicated before you start reading.

Acknowledge that some reading assignments are challenging - some materials will require more concentration and time (adjust your schedule accordingly). Set a goal to complete and learn the material at all costs.

Adopt personal definitions of misunderstood primary source information - sometimes a primary source (historical document, work of literature, scientific study, or journal article) does not sufficiently define a concept. In such cases, you must define them on your own. Ask your professor, tutors, or peers for assistance. Search reference materials (dictionary, class notes, Internet etc.) on the subject.

Assign order to seemingly chaotic reading materials - Use the SQ3R reading technique and critical reading skills to discover patterns. This will increase your understanding of the readings and improve your retention.

Next, you must optimize your reading environment. Find the place and time that will promote your success. Examine these issues to ensure that you are ready to read.

Eliminate distractions - identify the distractions. If it is external (noise, construction, music, or the TV) change locations or change the stimuli - cut the music off. If it is internal (bored, hunger etc.) make the your necessary physical, emotional, or mental adjustments to focus on your reading.

Read alone, unless you are working in a group - create an interruption-proof place and time where you can concentrate on your work; not at home with family, in the noisy part of the library, with a cell phone on, or by the window with the party going on outside.

Be comfortable - your location has to be comfortable enough for you to stay for hours, without being so comfortable that you will "nod off" or fall asleep! Make sure the lighting is good and the temperature is appropriate, not too hot or cold. Make sure you select a time that you are typically alert!

Choose a regular time and place - establish consistency and a routine. Reading during the same time frames and place will set the tone and expectation that you are about to get some serious work done. It will also identify the location as prime "work space and time" i.e. no playing around allowed.

 

Russell Conwell Center

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