We've all encountered chapters or books that we just can't get into. There are lots of reasons for this: sometimes we're required to read about a topic that is just plain boring; sometimes we try to read material that is written way above our current intellectual level; and sometimes we find that the writer is just plain bad at explaining things. It happens.
If you find yourself reading a chapter or book several times without understanding it, try taking the following steps.
Difficulty: Hard
Time Required: Differs by length of written material
Here's How:
- Look at the sub-headings. Most books or chapters will progress in some manner, whether they show a progression of time or an evolution of ideas. Look over the topics and try to find the pattern.
- Read the introduction and reflect. Any nonfiction article or book will have an introductory section that gives an overview of the main points. Read this first, then stop, think, and soak it in.
- Read the summary and reflect. The summary at the end of a chapter or book should re-state the points that were mentioned in the introduction. (If they don't, then this really is a difficult book to understand!) This reiteration of the main points may offer the material in more depth or from a different viewpoint. Read this section, then stop and soak it in.
- Read the material. Now that you've had time to understand the points the author is trying to convey, you're more apt to recognize them when they come along. When you see a major point, flag it with a sticky note.
- Take notes. Take notes and, if possible, make a brief outline as you read. Some people like to underline words or points in pencil. Only do this if you own the book.
- Watch for lists. Always look for code words that tell you a list is coming. If you see a passage that says "There were three major effects of this event, and they all impacted the political climate," or something similar, you can be sure there is a list following. The effects will be listed, but they may be separated by many paragraphs, pages, or chapters. Always find them and make note of them.
- Look up words you don't understand. Don't be lazy! One word can indicate the entire tone or view of the piece. Don't try to guess the meaning. That can be dangerous!
- Keep on plugging through. If you're following the steps but you still don't seem to be soaking in the material, just keep reading. You'll surprise yourself.
- Go back and hit the highlighted points. Once you get to the end of the piece, go back and review the notes you've made. Look over the important words, points, and lists.
- Review the introduction and summary. When you do, you may find that you've absorbed more than you realized.
Tips:
- Don't be hard on yourself. If this is hard for you, it's probably just as hard for other students in your class.
- Don't try to read in a noisy environment. That might be OK under other circumstances, but it's not a good idea when attempting difficult reading.
- Talk to others who are reading the same material.
- You can always join the homework forum and ask advice from others!
- Don't give up!
What You Need:
- A difficult book!
- Note paper
- Pencil
- Sticky note flags
- Quiet room
