How to Read for Graduate School

Learning to Read Faster

1. 
   Practice skimming. Skimming is a technique that helps you read for specific information. Instead of trying to read every single word in a book or article, try honing in on key parts. For example, read the first sentence of each paragraph. This will help you identify main ideas.^[1]

   1. If you are reading an article, focus on the first and last paragraphs. These areas are typically where authors will state and re-state their arguments.
   2. Jot down any unfamiliar terms or concepts and come back to them later.
2. 
   Look for signposts. Signposts are words or phrases that indicate the author is saying something significant. As you skim, look for words like 'most,' 'essential,' 'definition,' and 'thesis.' Depending on which discipline you are studying, you might come up with your own set of signposts to look for. ^[2]
3. 
   Read for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break. You might think that reading for as long as possible will help you get through that massive stack of books. However, it's actually better to break reading up in manageable chunks. Your brain can better process information that way.^[3]

   1. Set a timer for 25 minutes and read until it dings. During this time, don't check your phone, look at email, or do anything other than read.
   2. After your 25 minute timer goes off, set it for 5 minutes and take a break. Do some stretches, grab some water, and after 5 minutes, get back to reading.
4. 
   Take notes as you read. Taking notes will help you recall what you've read. It doesn't matter whether you take notes in the margins, on a notepad, or on your laptop--just take notes. You might write down critiques, observations, or questions.^[4]

   1. Taking good notes will also help you be an active participant in classroom discussions.
5. 
   Create a good reading environment. It only makes sense that you will read faster if you don't have to worry about distractions. Find a place to do your reading that is comfortable and conducive to concentrating. You might try having a place at home and a couple of other locations for when you need a change of scenery.^[5]

   1. At home, set aside an area where there is no television. It might be a quiet corner in your bedroom, for example. Let others know that when you're in your reading area you're not to be disturbed.
   2. If you like working in silence, find a good study table in an isolated corner of the library.
   3. Find a good coffee shop if you like to work with a little background noise.
6. 
   Increase your reading speed by practicing each day. Don't worry about spending money on a pricey and time-consuming speed reading course. You can increase your reading speed by practicing each day for 15-20 minutes. All you need to do is focus on how fast you are reading,and then challenge yourself to go faster. This might feel uncomfortable at first, but you'll get better with time.

   1. Practice with materials that are enjoyable and not too complicated. After you read, quiz yourself to make sure you are retaining information.
   2. Clock yourself each day so you can measure your results and see if speed reading is working for you.