For instance, if you’re reading to follow instructions (like a recipe or assembly guide), you’ll need to understand the exact meaning of each step. If you’re reading a text that has lots of information, like a textbook, then you’ll be reading most of all for new information on things you don’t know or understand.
If you’re reading to gain information (for instance, to meet work or school requirements), you’ll probably want to try extensive techniques. If you’re reading to practice pronunciation, learn vocabulary, or study grammar, you’ll probably want to try intensive techniques.
Does the work have a title? Is there a table of contents you can scan? Is the work divided into separate sections? Does the work have any “extras,” like bolded key words, illustrations, or graphs?
Don’t get too caught up in parts you don’t fully understand. If you can summarize the main point of what you’re reading, then you’re doing ok.
For example, say you read the following sentence and wanted to know what “pessimist” means: My mother is always happy and optimistic, the total opposite of my brother, the pessimist. From the sentence, you can gather that “pessimist” means the opposite of happy: being moody and angry.
Read whatever interests you, if you’re just trying to improve your basic skill. Rereading things you’ve already gone through can build your confidence.
For instance, you can make bullet points to summarize every time you come to a major idea. If there are key terms or dates in whatever you’re reading, make a note of those as well. If there are parts you don’t understand, write down the questions you have and come back to them later.
If you have trouble summarizing or remembering any part of what you’ve read, go back over it again. You can also try writing out a summary in an outline form, rather than full sentences.
If you come across a word or concept that seems important but is not clearly defined in the text, look up its meaning in a dictionary or encyclopedia (either online or print). If you see certain words being used over and over again, that’s another sign that they’re important for what you’re reading and worth looking up.
To improve reading aloud you can even pair yourself with someone you feel is a better reader. While your partner is reading, listen to your their pronunciation, speed, and rhythm. Take a turn yourself, then ask for feedback.
Try reading in a quiet, well-lit place with a desk and comfortable chair, if you can.
