Understand what you are looking for in the reading. Are you looking to gain a general understanding or are you
searching for specific information or support for an argument?
A well structured reading, should begin by outlining the main premise, argument or ideas in the first few
sentences, and certainly in the first paragraph. Pick out the main premise and write it down (see activity 1). Each
paragraph after that should contain evidence that the author uses to support the main premise.
2If you understand the premise, don’t read the examples given to support it. Never include examples in your
notes. Only include the facts, avoid experiences and anecdotes where possible.
Rowntree (1976: 40-64) outlines what he calls the ‘SQ3R’ approach to reading and note taking from text. He
suggests that students should use the following activities in order to get the most from a reading in the most
efficient way.
1. Survey – flip through the chapter or book and note the layout, first and last chapters or paragraphs, look at
the headings used, familiarise yourself with the reading.
2. Question – Ask questions about the way the reading is structured and think about the questions you will
need to keep in mind while reading. Think about whether or not you think the book is relevant or if it’s
current and if it suits the purpose of your study.
3. Read – read actively but quickly, looking for the main points of the reading – don’t take any notes – you
might want to read through twice quickly.
4. Recall – Write down the main points of the reading and any really important facts, and opinions that help
support the main points. Also record the bibliographic details.
5. Review – repeat the first three steps over and make sure you haven’t missed anything. At this point you
might like to finalise your notes and reread your notes or write down how the material you’ve just covered
relates to your question or task.