There’s no “right” way to skim read, but one good policy is this: Read the entire intro paragraph Read the first sentence of each body paragraph Read the entire conclusion paragraph
Don’t rush — slowing down helps you connect with the text. [4] X Expert Source Jake AdamsAcademic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
Mark words and concepts that you don’t understand for later reference.
Dictionaries and thesauruses can help with words you don’t know. However, technical terms and unknown concepts may require you look up help articles online. For instance, if you’re reading an article about “4K” television, you probably won’t be able to find a definition for 4K in the dictionary.
After this, familiarize yourself with the mindset, beliefs, opinions, and current events that were happening as the writing was created. Ask, “how are these reflected in the writing itself?”
If you’re not sure whether the work has a hidden meaning, consider why it was written in the first place (your background research can help you here). Is the author just trying to entertain you, or is s/he trying to convince you to accept a certain theory or philosophy?
While it’s important to acknowledge the text’s emotional content, a crucial part of critical reading is to take a logical approach to analysis, rather than an emotional one. Recognize your emotions (as well as the author’s), but don’t let them keep you from thinking about the work with a detached, objective perspective.
Challenge or question at least one thing you read in the passage. Then take the author’s side and argue for it. Remember: just because you read it doesn’t mean it’s true! Consider how the reading may apply to your life. This could mean anything from thinking of when you might need to know what acids and bases are to personally applying a line of poetry which especially moved you.
There’s no escaping it: some passages are just dry or uninteresting. See if you can find at least one thing you like about what you’re reading. You can even pretend you’re a detective or a reporter and the passage you are reading is involved in an exciting assignment. This makes things a little more fun. If you can’t find anything fun in the reading, it’s probably advanced academic material. In this case, enjoy feeling smart for reading it!
