Effective reading: Home

Effective reading skills are key to managing the volume and complexity of reading at university.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I need to read this?
• How much detail do I need to read it in?
• How can I read more effectively?

Top tips for reading

Evaluation

• identify the author’s line(s) of reasoning and evaluate this critically
• evaluate the evidence for the author’s argument
• question their apparent ideas and check for any hidden assumptions
• check whether the evidence cited in the paper supports the author’s conclusions
• relate what you are reading to your own ideas and existing knowledge.

Notemaking

There is no ‘right’ way to make notes: you need to find the way that works best for you.

Consider:

• written notes
• e-notes
• audio notes
• highlighting
• mind maps

For more ideas look at Skills for Study module on Reading and note-making. You can also watch the videos on this page on the Cornell Method and Outline Method for ideas.

Concentration

Find the right place and time for reading; take regular breaks and exercise.

You will find more detailed guides on effective reading in the resources listed on this page. 

Related resources: