This chapter explored a wide range of concepts and strategies for getting the most from your college reading. Revisit the following key points, and reflect on how you can use this information to support your success now and in the future.
Along with attending class, note taking, studying, test taking, and writing and presenting, reading is a critical academic skill. Reading and attending class set the stage for excelling at other study skills, so reading is foundational to your college success.
To understand, remember, and apply what you’ve learned from reading class materials, you need to take a three-step active reading approach: (1) prepare to read, (2) read with focus, and (3) review what you’ve read.
Strategies for preparing to read include evaluating how long your reading will take; previewing your textbook preface, table of contents, and key terms; and developing purposeful reading questions — questions that you want to be able to answer once you’ve finished the reading.
Strategies for reading with focus include marking up your reading materials, thinking critically about what you’re reading, clarifying material you don’t understand, and boosting your reading efficiency by sharpening your concentration and increasing your reading speed.
Strategies for reviewing what you’ve read include reciting key concepts in your own words, summarizing them in a bulleted list or paragraph, and reviewing and studying your notes.
If you find reading to be challenging, you can contact the learning assistance center, an adviser, or staff at the disability services office for help.
In addition to using the other strategies mentioned in the chapter, you’ll want to master strategies for reading specific types of materials, such as math and science textbooks, journal articles, and readings assigned in your online classes.
The critical thinking skills you use to handle your college reading — including gathering, analyzing, and applying information — will prove just as valuable in your work life. By knowing how to get the most from your reading, you can excel at your job, stay up-to-date with knowledge in your field, and build new skills.