Many college students have difficulty with reading and recall because they are storing information in short term memory rather than long term memory. You can master college level reading by applyingmemory techniques such as those listed in this website. The three steps of the SQ4R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review and Reflect) method of reading is designed to store information in long term memory so that you can actually remember what you have read and be successful on tests. Try these steps: SQ4R Step One: Survey and Question Step Two: Read and Recite Step Three: Review and Reflect
More Useful Ideas 1. If you do not understand what you have read, make sure you understand the word definitions. Look up words that are unfamiliar to you and learn the meanings. You will see these words again on the examinations for the class. 2. As a beginning college student, you may need to re-read if you do not get the main point the first time. Your speed and comprehension will improve with practice. 3. Do not be afraid to mark and highlight your book. Marking and highlighting save your time and improve memory by making review easier. 4. If you do not understand the concepts, talk with your instructor during office hours. 5. Make sure you have the prerequisites for the course. Consult the college catalog or the Counseling Office if you need assistance. 6. Read or at least skim your material before class. You will understand the lecture much better. 7. Do a quick review of your material periodically during the semester and you will be well-prepared and relaxed for the final exams. 8. If you have applied these techniques and still have a great deal of difficulty with reading, consider taking a college reading course. A college reading course can be one of your best investments for college success. 9. Sometimes students have difficulties with reading or memory because of a learning disability. A person with a learning disability is of average or better intelligence who has a problem with learning. Some very brilliant people in history such as Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison have had learning disabilities. Each college has a Learning Disabilities Specialist who is trained to administer assessments to identify and assist with learning disabilities. 10. Match your reading strategy to your learning style. For example, auditory learners may want to read their books aloud. If you are an active learner, you may want to stand up and move around when you read. If you are an introvert, you may enjoy a quiet place with few distractions for learning. If you are an extrovert, try a study group.
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