How to read effectively

How to read effectively

Whether it's an article online, a technical document at work or a book you're studying the importance of commiting the information to memory is great.

Methods like skim reading can be good for getting the basic theme of documents and picking out facts but isn't the most effective way to learn the information.





Glossary - If it's a technical document or one focused on complex subject matter, it can be useful to compile your own glossary of terms, or if there is one to go along with the material keep that close to hand.

Key concepts - Scan the document or just the contents if it's a large one, and note down the key concepts that you will be reading. This will form a sort of action plan and help you structure your reading.

Summary - When you've finished a chapter or an important part of the document, write a quick paragraph of what you've learned and the main points of the text.

Review - When you've finished reading it's important to review the document to confirm your understanding. Scan your summaries and the document.

Notes - Rewrite and reorganise your notes. This may seem pointless now, but it will help cement all the facts into memory, plus it will make it neater for review and storage.


It's important to note that the transition from short term to long term memory can take time. Without reviews of the information it can become lost among other learning.
Aim to review your notes a day, week and month after writing and then every 2-3 months after.