Introduction: Effective Reading at University
Read this short discussion of why you need good reading skills to thrive in the university. Some general advice on how to read effectively is also provided.
2. Effective Reading
To make the most of reading at university (especially in the context of remote learning), you may want to consider some general advice. The following tips may seem obvious, but are nevertheless important.
- Set a purpose for reading. Be clear about what you need (e.g., answers to questions, general understanding of a topic, identification of a writer’s position, etc.). Don’t just read aimlessly.
- Consider where you read. Always read in a well-lit and quiet place that is free of distractions, and don’t get into the habit of reading university materials in bed (unless you want to go to sleep).
- Don’t vocalize as you read. This will slow you down and it won’t help you to concentrate.
- Read at times when you can concentrate, and maintain concentration by taking regular short breaks, perhaps every 30 or 45 minutes.
- Set yourself reading tasks (for example, 10 pages, 1 chapter, 1 section of a chapter).
- Remember that reading often takes longer than you expect and you often need to go beyond set texts. Give yourself enough time!