(Ep.27) The SQ3R Reading Method

Two days ago, I recommended that if you want to be the best student in your university, you should engage more in active reading. I gave you important steps on how to go about active reading.

There are different active reading strategies. One of the most popular is the SQ3R Reading strategy. This strategy was first proposed by Francis Robinson, a prominent American educational Psychologist in 1946 in his book titled Effective Study

What is SQ3R

The SQ3R is an active reading strategy that helps the reader engage intentionally with the material before, during and after reading. SQ3R is actually an acronym which stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite and Review.

1. S - Survey

First, quickly go through the materials you are to study. Take note of the headings, subheadings, as well as the notes under the pictures, tables and charts. Don't spend so much time on this. This step will give you an overview of what to expect from the text or material you are to read.

2. Q- Question or Query

From what you have noted from the survey, develop questions for the text. You could convert the headings and subheadings into questions. This helps you engage with the material. You could also ask general questions like, 'What is this chapter about?', 'What is the author trying to say in this paragraph?' Etc.

3. R1 - Read

Here you are expected to read the article in details. While reading, try seeking for answers to the questions you already formulated. Take notes. Highlight points you consider important. 

4. R2 - Recite or Recall

As you read through the text, try to recall the information you already got from the text, including the answers to the questions you initially formulated. This recall can be done orally or in writing. Close you book and try doing the recall. If you find out that you don't remember, go back to the text and read through again.

5. R3 - Review

Now that you are done, reading, try to do a review of what you have just read. Summarize what you have read so far. Go back to your notes and underlined parts. Review them again. Do this review every other day to be sure that the content is still retained in your memory. This will help you during exams.

Summary

You are more likely to comprehend, recall and keep in your long term memory if you actively engage in reading using the SQR3 strategy.

See you at the top.

Now that you are a student, practice the SQ3R strategy.

(Photo Credit: Marbella International University Centre)

✌️ 💕 

Dr Tochukwu Onu, PT