Reading and Remembering

Reading skills are the ultimate learning tool, and the ability to read, understand, and remember what you have read can give you a lifetime of learning and pleasure. We read in different ways according to our purpose (i.e.: answer a specific question, grasp a message, find details, be entertained etc.)

Reading Text Books and Technical Writing

These sorts of books are often read in order to complete a specific or general assignment. Here are some pointers to help in this type of study:

Always pre-read your assignment before beginning your reading, and then look at the reference material to check for headings, sub-headings, summaries, etc. to get an idea of what you will need to look at closely.

Skim the chapter or passage quickly to find the main message, reasoning and major points.

Go back for detail and reread one section at a time. Be sure you understand what has been written. Write definitions of unfamiliar and key words or terms that are essential to understand the topic. Write questions and answers that clarify the topic. Note any questions you can’t answer, and later seek assistance in answering them.

Remembering What You Have Read

There are several keys to the ability to master and remember material. The desire to remember is essential. In fact, retaining and recalling information has more to do with interest than reading speed. It is important to become an active reader if you want to be able to recall the information later.

Six Steps to Reading and Remembering

1. Evaluate the material. Know your purpose for reading and identify your interest and the level of difficulty.

2. Choose the reading method appropriate for your purpose. Are you trying to grasp the main idea or to memorize details?

3. Identify the important facts and work to remember only what you need to fullfil your purpose. Keep in mind you will remember only what you understand!

4. Take notes. Use your own words to summarize main ideas. Use an outline, diagram, highlighting etc. to show relationship or patterns. Writing down key points will reinforce your memory.

5. Review. Quiz yourself on what you must remember, and review regularly, first shortly after you have read, second a few days later, and finally just before you are expected to be able to recall the information.

6. Implement. Find opportunities to use the knowledge you have gained. Discussing it with others will greatly increase what you recall.

Reading involves a skill and appreciation that can be developed with practice over time!

Reference: How to Study 5th Edition by Ron Fry. This book, and several others about studying can be found in the PLKS library.