SQ3R Reading Strategy

SQ3R was introduced to me early in my first year at ITB and I have come to realise the enormous benefits of this technique.  In the past I spent hours reading books and highlighting almost everything on the page.  Now I have learned how to maximises my time and energy.  If you want to acquire this skill, then read on!

SQ3R is a reading technique using five steps:

Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review

Step 1. Survey/Skim.  Glance through the chapter; look for headings, sub-headings or anything else that jumps out at you.  A temptation might come over you to read the entire chapter but resist as it only uses up your valuable time.

Step 2. Question.  While skimming, ask yourself “what is this chapter about?" and “what do I want to learn from this chapter”.  Make sure the contents are relevant to what you want to learn.

Step 3. Read.  If after completing step one and two you are happy that the chapter holds information relevant to you then read the chapter.

Step 4. Recite/Recall.  While reading the chapter take notes; it is important to take notes in your own words not the authors as it will be easier to remember and understand.  Use a dictionary to look up words you don't understand.

Step 5. Review.  When you have finished taking notes you should read through them and test yourself by re-writing the key points.

It might sound too simple but believe me, it works.  This method will dramatically cut down your study time and assignment writing time. Give it a try!