Books are among the most efficient learning tools available. A few hundred pages can contain years of someone's expertise.
But most people read books and remember almost nothing. Here's how to change that.
Before Reading
Choose Wisely
Not all books are worth reading cover-to-cover. Preview before committing.
Set a Purpose
Why are you reading this? What do you want to learn? Clear purpose guides attention.
Survey First
Read the table of contents, introduction, and conclusion. Get the structure before diving in.
While Reading
Active, Not Passive
Highlight sparingly, take notes, write questions. Don't let your eyes move while your brain sleeps.
Engage with Ideas
Ask: Do I agree? How does this connect? What's the evidence? Where could I apply this?
Take Progressive Notes
Write main ideas. Summarize sections. Capture key quotes. Build a map of the book.
Don't Push Through Confusion
When confused, slow down. Re-read. Look up background. Confusion signals learning opportunity.
After Reading
Summarize Immediately
Within 24 hours, write a summary from memory. What were the main ideas? What will you remember?
Create an Implementation Plan
If the book has actionable advice: What specific changes will you make?
Review Notes Later
Return to your notes. Space your reviews over time.
Discuss or Teach
Share what you learned. Teaching solidifies understanding.
Different Books, Different Approaches
Practical books: Focus on applications. Try the advice.
Conceptual books: Map the arguments. Question the assumptions.
Reference books: Don't read cover-to-cover. Use as needed.
Quantity vs. Quality
Better to read 10 books deeply than 50 shallowly. A book you've processed and applied is worth ten you've skimmed and forgotten.
Related Articles:
- Reading Comprehension Strategies
- Note-Taking Methods
Read and learn more with BrainRash - Start free
Top comments (0)