How do I use surveying?

So, how does a person survey what they are about to read? A good reader will survey the parts of written material that often have clues to the topics and the main idea. Some of these places include:

Titles

Sub-titles

Headings

Table of contents

Outlines

Pictures

Illustrations

Tables

Footnotes

First sentences

Last sentences

First paragraphs

Last paragraphs

Try to predict the main ideas, topics, and details that will be presented. If some parts of the material is new, you may want to plan to spend more time reading those sections. If there are new words, you may want to consult a dictionary before you begin. You will understand more when you begin reading. You will also know what section you will need to read carefully and what sections you can scan quickly.