How to Read Better

Introduction

This tutorial aims to help you improve your reading skills by focusing on building quality habits and understanding the material deeply. Whether you want to tackle classics, philosophy, or serious non-fiction, these practical tips will guide you on your journey to becoming a better reader.

Step 1: Treat Reading Like Exercise

• Recognize that reading requires practice and effort, similar to physical exercise.
• Understand that mental faculties used in reading need to be developed.
• Start small if you haven’t been reading regularly. Aim to read for 30 minutes a few times a week.
• Gradually increase your reading duration as your attention span improves.

Step 2: Read Books More Than Once

• Approach challenging texts in two stages:
  1. Fast Read: Quickly go through the book to grasp the main ideas and arguments.
  2. Slow Read: After some time, return to the book for a detailed understanding.
• This method allows you to see how individual parts contribute to the overall message, deepening your comprehension.

Step 3: Take Intentional Notes

• Avoid taking extensive notes while reading, as this can lead to confusion and overwhelm.
• Use light annotations, such as:
  • Checkmarks next to significant passages.
  • Brief comments in the margins.
• After finishing a chapter, write a concise summary (1 paragraph) of the key argument.
• Use your annotations to guide your second read, deciding which notes are worth expanding upon.

Step 4: Choose the Right Books

• Select books with purpose, rather than randomly picking titles.
• Consider your interests and goals when choosing what to read:
  • Thematic Interest: Explore a specific topic (e.g., political theory) by reading diverse authors.
  • Author Focus: Dive deeper into a particular author’s works to understand their range and depth.
• Create a reading plan that aligns with your personal growth and interests.

Step 5: Carry Your Book Everywhere

• Always have a book, Kindle, or audiobook accessible.
• Use spare moments throughout your day to read, such as during lunch breaks or before bedtime.
• Develop a habit of reading regularly, which will enhance your skills over time.

Conclusion

Improving your reading is a journey that requires intentional practice and thoughtful choices. By treating reading like exercise, revisiting texts, taking focused notes, selecting meaningful material, and making books readily available, you can cultivate a rewarding reading habit. Begin implementing these strategies today to enrich your reading experience and deepen your understanding of great literature.