How to Do SQ3R notes (a study method)

There are many different techniques people use to gain and retain information. Psychologists have done extensive studies on what methods work best for speed, comprehension, and retention. And the best news is that it isn't hard, it may even be easier than your current method. It's Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. SURVEY: This step helps you read faster and preorganize the iformation in your head. To do it all you need to do is read the headings and subheadings of each section in the chapter you are about to read along with the overall chanpter summary that is at the end. Be sure to notice what the overall chapter is about.
2. QUESTION: Whenever you see a title or heading it gives hints as to what the follwing text will be about. Use this hint to form a question. If you do this you will read the section with a "purpose" that is to answer the question. Reading will be faster and comprehension better.
3. READ: This one is obvious read the section under the heading you just asked the question about. Stop at the next heading.
4. RECITE: After reading each section all you have to do is jot down a few words or phrases from your memory that will remind you of the answer to your question.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 for each section until you've read the whole chapter or come to a good stopping point.
6. REVIEW: After you are done reading look over your notes and try remember the answers to all your questions. Try to recite the information under each heading without looking.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your notes in simple outline format according to the headings.
• If you are bored or tired of reading take a break and continue it later.
• Review again a day after reading the chapter and periodically until your test date.
• At first it may seem tedious and to not work, but after practive this method will get easier and will help.