50 Study Skills Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. This approach is what most people think of when they hear the word reading. Reading for detail is necessary when you read a textbook chapter to learn the con- cepts being taught. Generally, the process of reading for detail involves using the steps shown in Figure 7-3. SQ3R SQ3R, also called SQRRR, is a reading strategy to help readers retain written infor- mation. When you study for a test, it is important to comprehend what you are read- ing. SQ3R is useful for helping improve comprehension. There are five steps of the strategy: survey, question, read, recite, and review. 1. Survey. Skim, or preread, the material to look for any important headings, words, or figures. If there is a summary at the end of the chapter, reviewing it before you read the chapter can be helpful. 2. Question. Turn each heading into a review question. As you read each section, see if you can answer the question you created. 3. Read. Actively read the material, remembering to process the words, phrases, and sentences you read. 4. Recite. Recite what you read. Use your own words and summarize what you have read. If you cannot recite what you covered, read it again. 5. Review. Reviewing the material will help keep it fresh in your mind. If you are reading a chapter and know you will eventually be assessed on the content, review the material every few days. This will help make studying for the test easier and more effective than cramming would be. General Reading Techniques Your reading skills and habits were probably set years ago. If your reading skills are in need of improvement, you can strengthen them by practicing. Read as much as you can, and challenge yourself to apply the principles of active reading. If you strive to actively read, the more you read, the better you will become. Some general read- ing techniques that might improve your active reading skills include using prior knowledge, reading phrases instead of words, and marking your reading materials. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 7-3 Follow these suggestions when reading material for detail. Reading for Detail • •• Anticipate the content and purpose for reading based on prior knowledge. •• Read phrase by phrase, connecting smaller concepts to form larger ideas. • Question and comment on the author’s statements while checking your understanding and comprehension of the material. • •• Reread until you understand, or read ahead to see if later text provides clarity. • If you get stuck on words or concepts, use prior knowledge to work through the problem areas or seek help from a friend or reference materials. • • When you finish reading for detail, evaluate and analyze what was read, considering the purpose of the information. • • Draw conclusions about the reading based on the purpose and situation, putting biases and emotions aside.