FAQS

Active reading is part of a reading comprehension strategy that should also include pre-reading and post-reading activities.

SQ3R is a reading strategy that include pre-reading, active, and post-reading elements.

More on active reading:

Active reading means the reader is engaged in the text that he or she is reading. You can be an active reader by....

• Reading with a specific focus
  • Keep in mind what information you are looking for as you read
  • Find two or three things your instructor might put on the next test
  • Separate main ideas from supporting details, fact from opinion
• Breaking the text up into portions
  • Do not feel you have to read the whole text in one sitting
  • Set a timer and stop after 20–25 minutes and take a 5-minute break
  • Before you begin reading again, think about/process what you were reading
  • Skip around in the text to find relationships among ideas in it
• Questioning the text as you read
  • Did the author get everything right?
  • Is there information you expected to find but did not?
  • Did any information surprise you?
  • What do you want to know more about?
  • Write questions in the margins
• Taking notes as you read
  • While reading the chapter, write symbols next to the sentences as you think they are necessary.  
  • Construct your own code for things that you agree/disagree with, are noteworthy, are confusing, etc.
  • Write down important points and facts you want to remember
  • Consider using formalized note-taking system for note taking, like the Cornell system
  • Have someone "quiz" you a day after the reading to actively check your comprehension of the material

If you get stuck...

• Use context clues, charts, tables, and pictures to help you understand the information
• When you come across unknown vocabulary, try to guess what the word means based on content, and circle words to come back to later if you need to
• Don’t fixate too long on one word because it could cause you to lose your momentum
• Ask for help when you need it!