Step 1: First Reading: Previewing
• Skim the text quickly for the main ideas.
• Pay attention to the introduction.
• Read the opening sentences of paragraphs and section headings.
Step 2: Reread and Annotate
• Read more slowly this time, and take notes.
• Annotate – write notes, and most importantly, questions.
• Find the evidence and analyze/evaluate it.
Step 3: Review
• Read a third time.
• Read your questions and notes.
• Look up unfamiliar words.
• Make sure you understand any confusing or complicated parts of the reading.
Step 4: Respond in Writing
• Freewrite
• Summarize
• Outline
• Connect to other texts
• Write a formal critique
You can also take time to self-evaluate:
• Think about what you’ve learned.
• Write more questions.
• Write what you still want to know.
• Do additional research.