How to Read a Textbook

Reading a textbook is an integral part of most classes, whether it be in the 5th grade, or senior year in college. However, most students read without comprehending the material. Learn how to effectively read a textbook chapter and retain its information.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Textbook

1. Read the introduction to the chapter if there is one. This would include the objectives, key words you will learn, or whatever else is on the introduction page of the chapter. This small step will give you a background and open your mind to what you will learn in the chapter.

2. Skim through the chapter. Read all of the bold or italicized keywords and understand their definitions. This will make it so you already know the meanings of the important words while you are reading the chapter.

3. Read the first level headings in the chapter. These are all of the main headings in the chapter.

4. After you have read the first level headings, read the second level subheadings. These are the subheadings within the first level heading sections. If there are third level subheadings, read those after having read all of the second level subheadings.

5. Finally, read the chapter in its entirety, at a comfortable pace, not rushing yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Read in the same place everytime.
• Read in a quiet place, free of distraction, away from the computer or television.
• Give yourself a 10 minute break before sitting down and reading, and after reading before you do any other homework.
• Do not rush through the process or you will wonder what you've read after