Active Reading

Studying at a university involves learning new things and this can often be challenging. A key skill that students require is the ability to productively engage with complex texts. As a rule, if all texts, articles and books you read in your studies were easy for you, then your time would arguably be better spent engaging with more challenging material - not because this is a virtue in itself, but because you will ultimately learn more with the time you invest.

If you find yourself struggling with the textbooks and articles you are asked to read for your coursework, here are some strategies how to improve your academic reading skills:

• The SQ3R method - survey, question, read, recite, and review

• Thinking intensive reading - six reading habits

• Academic reading strategies