Skim and scan

  • Skim read the whole text for an overview
  • Read introductions, conclusions, summaries or abstracts
  • Scan for titles, headings and keywords which refer to relevant information
  • Scan for key information presented in graphs or diagrams

Read actively

  • Make notes as you read to record your thoughts and reactions
  • Write in the margins and ask questions
  • Write short summaries
  • Use visual representations, graphics and mind maps to show connections

Break it up

  • Choose smaller, achievable amounts of text to focus on
  • Read the sections you find easier first
  • Skim over passages that are more difficult
  • Re-visit and read these difficult sections later

Re-read

  • Mark what you don't understand to re-read later
  • Read and re-read difficult sections slowly several times

Look it up

  • Circle words and concepts you don't understand
  • Look up these words/concepts
  • Keep a glossary of discipline specific keywords and concepts

Talk about it

  • Talk about the reading with other students, tutors and lecturers
  • Talk about the readings in classes and seminars
  • Ask questions in unit site Discussion Boards and read the comments posted by others

Give yourself time

  • Give yourself enough time to read
  • Pace yourself and take breaks
  • If text is difficult, set it aside, and read it later
  • Give yourself time to understand what you are reading