The first time you read a text, mark it up (if the medium allows) or take notes.
What do you find confusing or unclear about the text? Where can you look for explanations or more information? Do you need background information?
What key terms, ideas, or patterns do you see? What images stay with you?
What sources or other works does this text cite, refer to, or allude to?
How does the content fit with what you already know?
Which points do you agree with? Which do you disagree with? Why?
Do the authors or creators present themselves as you anticipated in your preview?
For what audience was this text created? Are you part of its intended audience?
What underlying assumptions can you identify in the text?
Are the medium and genre appropriate for the topic, audience, and purpose?
Is the design appropriate for the subject and genre?
Does the composition serve a purpose—
Do words, images, sound, and other media work together well?
How would you describe the style of the text? What contributes to this impression—