Phil 211: Reading Tips

This is a basic summary of some ideas that can be found in more detail in most speed reading books.

Reading

A. Environment

1. Sit at a desk.
2. Put the book on the desk, turn pages with one hand and underline with the other.
3. Make sure there is good lighting with no glare off the book.
4. Remove distractions - e.g. TV, radio, friends, - However, soft, non-vocal music can help cover background noise.
5. Break the book in.

B. Techniques

1. Familiarize yourself with the contents and origin of the book (author, publisher, date published, table of contents, book flaps, etc.)
2. Skim each page of the book from front to back in one 10-15min sitting.
3. ***Most important*** Underline text with your hand as you read. Can use 'S', '?', or 'Z' shape. This helps concentration and speed.
4. Turn pages with free hand.
5. Have specific questions in mind while you are reading and try to discover the answers to them.

Note Taking

1. Use a diagrammatic method.
2. Write down the most important concepts and branch these out, constructing a tree or 'slash' diagram.
3. Use one page per chapter or major section break.
4. Take notes while reading.
5. Jot down any questions which occur to you on a separate piece of paper.