“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”
-Frederick Douglas
When was the last time you read a book? What did you learn from there? Can you remember the summary of a story or some pieces of information from the book you read years ago?
It is common to forget little things. One does not necessarily have to remember everything from a book. When you read a book or an article, you are expected to learn something from it. Every good write up has something worth remembering in it. But what is the use of reading if you cannot gain anything from it?
One major problem people face while reading is mind distraction. Many of us find it hard to finish a small book within a day. We spend a good amount of our time on social media. It reduces our attention span. Having too many sources of recreation (specially the ones that does not require much use of brain) can also hinder your reading.
You cannot spend a long time for only one small book, right? You should find some other way to make your reading effective and smarter. Here are some tips for you:
Tip-1 Before you start reading, ask yourself why you chose this particular book. When you will be going through the lines, your subconscious mind will automatically find out the important lines to get your purpose served. In the end, you will be able to meet your needs.
Tip-2 Suppose you did not read any book for months. Suddenly you got a task of reading a 600 pages book and reviewing it within 5days, how would you feel?
Definitely it will be hard for you. Some of have a tendency to study only when the exam knocks. We face a very hard time then!
Here is a secret tip for you. If it is an academic article you can keep a pen and a notebook with you while reading. Write down the important information, at least write down the summary. It is a very worthwhile way to keep things in you memory.
To make it fast, just go through the line with a good speed. You know why you are reading and what you need to remember. Work on those lines only.
Tip-3 Reading daily will help you a lot to be a better reader. Read at least 50 pages a day. Not only will it make you a better reader, but also it will soothe your mind. If you grab a book before going to sleep, you will have a sound sleep. According to a 2009 research study from University of Sussex, reading reduces stress by 68%. If you are suffering from insomnia, reading at least for 30 minutes before going to bed is a must for you!
Tip-4 If you are a new comer to the world of books, if you are trying to build a reading habit now, you are suggested to set a certain comfortable place for reading. Some people love to read on journey, some people prefer to read alone in a quite place. Know your preferences. For a heavy reading better you make a comfortable reading corner in your room. Reading at a same place everyday will make the reading more effective. Specially if you are a student, for academic studies you should set your place up well. You can bring some changes in the setups after a few days if you get bored with it!
Tip-5 After finishing a book or article or any type of reads, try to paraphrase it. Make a summary. You do not necessarily need to write it down. You can just make it in your head. It is a pretty good way to revise what you read. This way you make your version of the book, which will remain in your memory for a long time.
Tip-6 Our parents often suggest us to read loudly. Some of us feel a little uneasy with it, but it is really beneficial sometimes. Reading something loudly will save you from mind distraction. It might take longer, but if you are struggling with holding your attention for so long, you should try it.
People who love reading are definitely advanced in so many ways. Yet it is not easy for everyone to grab a book confidently. Well, not everyone has to have the same hobbies or choices therefore, not everyone is a bookworm. To tell the truth, you do not need to be a bookworm. Just read the things you need. Read a book the way it should be read, that is the best you can do. Hope you reading will be more effective now. Happy reading!
samha's table 