IDSB02: Development and Environment

Tools for Active Reading 

For most academic papers and assigned readings, it may be too time consuming to thoroughly read entire works from start to finish and expect to have an in-depth understanding of its contents right away. There may be more strategic ways to complete your assigned reading goals in a shorter span of time, while also increasing your understanding of the text. Here are five core strategies for promoting more active reading; 

Skim the material to get an overall idea of its contents 

• Skim the article quickly 

• Identify what information is discussed  

• Make note of headings and subheadings  

• Read the abstract, introduction, and conclusion 

Turn the text’s headings and subheadings into questions that guide your reading. 

• By turning headings into questions, you can read each section of the paper with the goal of seeking out a specific answer that will help you to grasp the overall argument of the text you are reading. 

Annotate 

• Next to each main paragraph, use a few words to summarize its main idea. 

• Enter a dialogue with the author; ask questions of the text.   

• Mark twists or turns in the argument. 

• Try not to underline too much of your text; highlight specific passages you intend to quote after reading the whole text. 

To learn more about annotation, see Examples of Annotation and Annotation Tips 

Engage with difficult vocabulary 

• Allow yourself time to unpack difficult sentences. 

• Pay attention to how difficult sentences fit into the larger paragraph. 

• Make use of a dictionary. 

Write up Reading Notes 

• In your own words, summarize the argument of the text you just read. 

• Make notes about key ideas or concepts you may be able to use in your writing. 

Want to learn more about active reading? See What is Active Reading? and Reading and Note-taking Skills for Research