Hey, Chicks. This is something of a tutorial on how to read (in the least patronizing way possible) or at least some tips on how to read critically when you’ve got lots to read and read properly without loads of time!
Put aside time for reading
Please don’t underestimate the time you need to read! Setting aside reading hours per week will really help you from falling behindÂ
Tip: time yourself reading one page of your current text and times it by the number of pages assigned to work out how fast you can read it. It might seem a chore but it’ll help you allocate your time better
Turn off the outside worldÂ
Turn off your phone, twitter, facebook, email and the internet. Yeah, you read that right. This will help you to stay focused and get through your material fasterÂ
Tip: See if you can turn off all notifications and check email and messages only twice a day. Be sure to let people know when you will and won't be available! Doing this will really free up your time and even make you make you feel more positive about your work!Â
Move your reading locationÂ
Switch up your reading locations a bit! Getting out of your room especially will help you feel more focused because we associate our bedroom with relaxation
Tip: Try out cafes, trains, buses, parks, other workstations and your nearest library
Use a reading standÂ
Now I wouldn’t suggest this if all your books are fairly manageable in terms of size and weight but if you have texts that are difficult to manipulate (like me) then consider getting one. They’re very useful for keeping hardbacks open when you’re trying to make notes
reading stands come in every shape and size but here's one I really likeÂ
Check online before you buy!
A lot of texts you may have been assigned will be available for free online in ebook format. It may be the case that you prefer reading from hardcopy and I really appreciate that. However, do still check because a) it’ll save you from carrying loads of heavy books everywhere and b) It will occasionally save you loads of money
IMPORTANT: Pls don’t steal or visit dodgy sights just to get texts. Writers are hard working people who love it when you actually buy their work. Check to see if texts still have Copyright!
Read effectivelyÂ
There is loads to say on this but just to keep it brief: not all texts need to be read in the same way. Some texts you can read partially, others quickly and some deeply. However, always do two things; work out at what level you need to know the material (ask your tutors) and define your aims and priorities before you start
example: ‘Before I read this article on the use of American Icons in 19th century lit I’m going to a) email my tutor to ask how relevant it is to our next class and b) recognise that I’m reading this because I want to know more about how this particular author uses American Icons, and therefore I’m going to focus on those parts of the article relating to the author only’
Tip: Skim reading is not cheating! I promise!! Also, its an acquired skill so don’t worry if you can’t do it right away. Don’t be scared to request more time to read course material if you need to, just do it in good time.
That's it for now! I really hope this is helpful if reading effectively is something you’ve been struggling with or want to start doing. Love from Niamh xo
