Some Tips for Effective Reading
Dr. Chad Berry
There are certain things that one must always try to accomplish while reading. Below is a
list, and it’s certainly not exhaustive.
Step 1. Identify any questions you have about the reading (mark clearly the place in
the reading). We’ll talk about this in class. If you have a question, chances are others do
Step 2. Identify key terms and concepts. I’ll always ask you about this in a quiz. To
date, this is what our quizzes have been about. Do this step, and you’ll do well on a quiz.
Step 3. Seek to identify the author’s main point(s). By identify, I mean mark it clearly in
the text, so that when I ask you in class, “So, what’s the author trying to say?” or “What’s the
author’s argument?” you’ll know.
Step 4. Integrate. That is, think about and explain how what you’re reading relates to what
we’ve been talking about. We’ll do this in class during discussion, but always make sure you
bring to class ideas and examples from the reading.
Step 5. Apply. Who cares, so what? What does the reading have to do with
___________? Think about it. We’ll do this in discussion, too.
Step 6. Evaluate. So, how did the author do in convincing you? Was the argument/point
backed up by good evidence? We’ll do this in discussion, too, but think about it beforehand.
Here are some additional tips for reading:
Divide up large chunks of reading and set daily goals to cover the material.
Read in a place where you can stay alert (awake, too!) and focused. Turn off
the stereo and the TV and the instant messenger.
ALWAYS read with a pen or pencil—not a highlighter—and make notes in
Pay attention to introductions and conclusions—they’re designed specifically to
tell you main points and arguments.
Constantly ask yourself questions: “What does this have to do with the first
paragraph?” “What was the main point of that section?” “Do I agree or disagree
with this?” “Does this seem like something Berry would want us to know?” “Is this
a main point?”
Review at the end of the reading. Create a short study guide if you’re preparing
for a test or want to remember the reading for later.
Read it again.
Search for key words.
Read it aloud.
Ask me for help.
Go to the Learning Center.
Pretend you understand it, and then try to explain it.
Get up, walk around, clean your room, visit a friend, and then come back to