Author: Mike and Matty
This is a simple 5 step framework on how I approach reading a textbook for class.
Step 1: Skim
- Quickly skim over the chapter, page by page, to get an idea of the big picture. Take note of how short or how long the chapter is. Take note of all the pictures, charts, and graphs you see. The goal is to mentally engage yourself with the topic you are about to learn.
- This step should take about 1–2 minutes.
Step 2: Key Points
- Read the review questions at the end of the chapter. This helps you identify what the author thinks are the most important, testable concepts to know. Keep these in mind for step 5.
- This step should take about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Bold Print
- Now it’s time to look at how the author organizes the information in the chapter. Read all the headings, subheadings, and any other bold printed words. Be on the lookout for bold print on pictures, graphs, tables, figures.
- Take note of how the subheadings are organized under the bigger heading. Also, take note of how the topics of the tables and graphs are compared and contrasted to each other.
- This step should take 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Section Guidance
- Read the first and last sentences of the sections to further help you understand the way the information is organized. The first sentences usually tell you what you will learn. The last sentences usually wrap up the main idea.
- This step should take 5 minutes.
Step 5: Comprehend
- Now that you know what’s important to look out for, it’s time to read.
- Read to understand why the author organized the information in this way. Read to understand how the headings and subheadings relate to each other. Read to find the answers to the end of the chapter questions and review questions from Step 2.
- If you run into a lot of details, make note of it, but don’t worry about memorizing the details at this time. Keep moving and focus on comprehension.
- This step should take as long as you need to understand the material.
