Reading basics
Before you dive into that textbook, article, or novel, take a moment to orient yourself to your reading task with three important pre-reading tasks: determining your purpose, previewing, and pace setting.
Using graphic organizers
If you’re a visual learner, this handout will give you a variety of visual models that you can use to organize your learning material.
Reading links
Follow these links for resources on reading more effectively and efficiently. Each of these sites offers learning resources appropriate for college-level learners. Please note that neither SPU nor the Center for Learning is responsible for content on the following pages.
-
BCDE: A mnemonic device to help you get the overall ideas in what you read.
-
5Ws & 1H: A mnemonic device to help you understand the details of what you read.
-
An at-a-glance matrix PDF document for remembering these three keys to effective reading comprehension.
-
PASTE: A mnemonic to help you understand what you read by using aids.
-
RUD-PC: A mnemonic for helping you read from the computer screen.
-
WARF: A mnemonic to help improve your reading speed.
-
Environment can make a big difference in your ability to focus and may make reading more difficult than it needs to be. Consider these factors that affect your environment.