How to Read: Guide For Beginners

We've all come across chapters or books that we can't seem to get into or grasp. There are a variety of causes for this: we may be compelled to read about a topic that is simply dull, we may attempt to read information written far beyond our current reading level, and we may discover that the writer is simply inept at expressing things. It happens all the time.

If you're having trouble understanding a chapter or book after reading it numerous times, try the methods below. Before you begin reading the text, make sure you complete steps 1 through 3.

Difficulty: Hard

Time required varies depending on the length of the written material.

What You'll Need:

• A challenging book or section.
• Pencil and notepaper
• Note flags that stick
• Room that is quiet

How to Do It

1. Read the introduction and think: about what you've learned. An introductory part will appear in any nonfiction article or book, providing an outline of the important ideas. Read it first, then pause, reflect, and absorb it.

Reason: Not all textbooks on a given subject are made equal! Every author has a distinct theme or point of view, which you will discuss in your introduction. Understanding the theme or focus is vital because it will help you understand why specific instances or comments arise in your reading.

2. Look at the sub-headings. Whether they demonstrate a progression of time or an evolution of ideas, most books or chapters will progress in some way. Examine the themes to see if there is a pattern.

Reason: An outline is used by writers to start the writing process. The subheadings or subtitles in your content demonstrate how the author organised his or her thoughts. Subtitles break down the broad subject into smaller chunks that are organised in the most logical order.

3. Read the summary and reflect. After you've finished reading the introduction and subheadings, turn to the back of the chapter to read the summary.

Reason: The topics expressed in the introduction should be re-stated in the summary. (If they don't, this is an extremely tough book to comprehend!) This reiteration of the main ideas may provide further information or a different perspective on the subject. After reading this part, take a moment to reflect on it.

4. Read the material. Now that you've had some time to think about the points the author is attempting to make, you'll be able to spot them when they appear. Mark a major point with such a post it note if you see it.

5. Take notes. As you read, take notes and, if possible, create a quick outline. Some people like to use a pencil to underline words or points. This should only be done if you own the book.

6. Watch for lists. Always keep an eye out for code words that indicate the arrival of a list. If you come across a line that says something like "There were three major repercussions of this event, and they all impacted the political climate," you can be sure there will be a list following. The impacts will be listed, although many paragraphs, pages, or chapters may separate them. Always keep an eye out for them and make a mental note of them.

7. Look up words you don't understand. Don't be hurried! When you come across a word that you can't define in your own words, come to a halt.

Reason: One word can convey the piece's whole tone or point of view. Make no attempt to deduce the meaning. That might be hazardous! Make a point of looking up the definition.

8. Keep on plugging through. Continue reading if you're following the instructions but don't seem to be absorbing the information. You'll be surprised at how well you do.

9. Go back and hit the highlighted points. When you've finished reading the text, go back and examine your notes. Examine the key phrases, points, and lists.

Reason: The key to remembering information is repetition.

10. Review the introduction and summary. When you do, you might discover that you've taken in more than you thought.

Tips

• Don't put too much pressure on yourself. If this is difficult for you, it is likely to be difficult for other students in your class.
• If you're trying to read in a noisy atmosphere, don't bother. That might be acceptable in other situations, but it's not a smart idea when trying to read anything tough.
• Talk to other people who are reading the same thing you are.
• You can always post a question on the homework topic and get help from others.
• Please don't give up!