The Lighthouse

Reading texts passively probably takes less time, but it’s also likely to be less productive. Reading texts actively is likely to help you both understand what you read and retain it for longer! So, here are a few ways you can ensure your reading is more active:

• Know why you are reading the text (for example: To understand a theory? To understand an argument? To find a definition?)
• Think about what the author is likely to say given what you already know about them (such as that they support a particular theory)
• Think of possible objections to what you are reading
• Think about how the text links or contrasts to other theories or topics
• Think about how the text links to your experience (where relevant)
• Make notes

Also see:

• http://owll.massey.ac.nz/study-skills/in-depth-reading.php
• http://owll.massey.ac.nz/study-skills/note-taking.php