In today’s world, we are faced with more and more information that we need to process more rapidly, yet at the same time to process more selectively. Since we can read faster than most people can talk, nothing beats reading as a way of gaining information and understanding.
And unlike oral and visual communication, the written word gives us the ability to review the material over and over and to highlight particular parts.
Here are some tips to make your reading most effective.
With a book, look through the table of contents and the material on the dust jacket to try to understand what the author is trying to say.
Then scan the book. One way to do this is to read just the first and last paragraph of every chapter. This will let you know if the book is what you had hoped it was.
Assuming you can keep the material you are reading, develop some kind of marking system. It doesn’t matter too much what it is, as long as it is consistent, and you remember it. Circle key words or ideas. Note in the margin when the author is defining something or creating a term.
Attempt a brief summary of each chapter by writing across the beginning of the chapter what it was all about. When you have completed the book, write on the flyleaf or inside cover what you consider to be the major benefit of the book to you.
In addition, consider these suggestions-whether reading books, journals, or magazines.
Don’t worry about finishing everything you have started.
Read a number of different things at the same time. Have them in different places where you can pick them up.
Most of us need only one news magazine a week and probably no more than two “professional” magazines. If you are accumulating stacks of magazines that you are “going to read someday,” scan the table of contents and throw away the ones you are never going to read.
Comprehension is the key to speed reading. That is why a book on vocabulary building may be just as useful as a speed reading course-although the latter can help break the problems of vocalizing words or eye fixation.
Don’t be surprised if your reading speed drops dramatically when you get into an entirely new field. It’s always easier to read material with which you are generally familiar.
Consider a reading plan for the entire year. How many books can you reasonably expect to read during a year? Do you need to give yourself more time during the working day for reading? Sit down with a calendar and actually schedule blocks of time for your reading. Note what you will read.
Analyze how much money you are willing to spend-and how much bookshelf space you have! Borrow from a library or work out an exchange arrangement with friends for books you are unlikely to use again after you have read them.
Are there some things other people could read for you? Many pastors have members of their congregations who like to read. These people can be taught to pass on certain kinds of items that you find useful.
Consider the value of reading things together as | a family or as a discussion group. Sharing the experience can be both enjoyable and stimulating.
-Ted W. Engstrom and Edward R. Dayton Monrovia, California
Copyright © 1992 by the author or Christianity Today/Leadership Journal. Click here for reprint information on Leadership Journal.
