This step-by-step approach helps you get the most out of your reading assignments. The benefits of SQ3R include improved comprehension and retention of material.

1. Survey: Carefully pre-read the chapter. Look at the title, introduction, subtitles, boldface and italics, graphs and diagrams, summary and/or conclusion, and questions at the end of the chapter.

2. Question: Reading is a thinking process; inquiry makes you an active reader. Formulate questions before you read. Hint: Convert titles, subtitles, etc. into questions. WRITE THESE DOWN!

3. Read: Thoroughly read the chapter and fill in the answers to your questions as you go along. Important: Read for meaning, not only the answers! Write down any information you sense is important.

4. Recite: Talk to yourself! Read your questions, answers and notes out loud. Go over key ideas and new terms using your own words. Be aware of any answers or information that don't seem quite clear.

5. Review: Reread these notes, not only the night before an exam, but as often as possible! Frequent review enables you to better retain the material and will save on study time.

BE FLEXIBLE! At first go through SQ3R step-by-step, and later alter it to suit your own purposes and style.