Introduction
The SQ3R Method is the technique that readers use when they want to understand the context, themes, and greater meaning of a text when they are reading it for the first time. In short, the SQ3R is the most consistent way to achieving high reading comprehension of complex reading assignments. With just a little bit of practice, you will be sure to retain more of what you read without having to go back and re-read it.
How To Use This Technique
- Survey the reading passage to get an overview of what it is really about (About 2-5 Minutes).
- Read the Title, Headings, and Subheadings
- Look at the Pictures, Charts, Graphs, or Maps
- Read the Introductory and Concluding Paragraphs
- If available, read the Review Questions (if this is a textbook)
- Question yourself while you are surveying the passage (About 2-5 Minutes).
- "What is this passage about?"
- "Why does this passage exist? Why would someone write this?"
- "What do I already know about this subject?"
- "What does my professor expect me to learn about this subject by reading this?"
- Optional: Write down your questions to remind yourself while you're reading
- Read, while paying attention to the following (About 15-45 Minutes):
- Look for answers to the Questions you created above
- Study the Graphic Aids (pictures, charts, maps) - you will be most likely to remember these.
- Note the Underlined, Italicized, or Bold words or phrases.
- Recite as you are reading through the section (3-8 Minutes):
- After completing each page, Summarize the Page in 5 or fewer words (for example, "Hamlet feels guilty"). Write this phrase at the top of the page, or on a separate sheet of paper.
- Review
- Ask Yourself Questions about you've read, attempting to guess the questions your professor might ask on an exam.
- Summarize the Reading in your own words. Speak your summary aloud to improve retention.
Why Does This Technique Work?
Sometimes it is difficult to stay focused while reading a passage because there isn't a clear reason or motivation for doing so.
The SQ3R Method changes this by giving students a purpose for reading. By creating a clear focus and answerable questions, it gives the passage extra weight and makes it easier to focus on a particular topic rather than simply trying to understand the entire text.
The SQ3R Method changes this by giving students a purpose for reading. By creating a clear focus and answerable questions, it gives the passage extra weight and makes it easier to focus on a particular topic rather than simply trying to understand the entire text.
Example
There are several variations of this technique, but they all agree on one thing - creating answerable questions helps with retention and comprehension.
Take a look at the video below from Proactive Thinker to see the technique in action.
Take a look at the video below from Proactive Thinker to see the technique in action.
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Tips And Tricks
- In many cases, Looking at your Course Syllabus before starting a reading passage can help you ask the right questions for maximizing your grade. Always ask yourself, "Why does my professor care that I read this passage?"
- Using this strategy will not only help with your reading assignments, but can also be used very well on tests with reading passages, like standardized tests (SAT, GRE, LSAT) and document-based exams.
- Keep your list of questions. They will be the quickest and easiest way of reviewing this content if you are going back over your texts before an exam.
Resources
Khan AcademyTheir article on SQ3R is a useful perspective on how the technique helps with understanding.
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Jen Johnson (Youtube)This short and useful video can help you to understand how the SQ3R Method works.
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Show What You Know:
SQ3R Method
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