Textbook Reading & Notetaking
Textbooks are the basis of many courses and yet, some students do not complete their assigned readings. There are many reasons for this, but we have solutions to make textbook reading easier and more understandable.
Similarly, effective note-taking and reviewing can aid understanding of course material and raise your grades.
Textbook Reading
- 8 Tips for Textbook Reading
- Scanning vs. Skimming – Should you scan this chapter or skim it? This handout will review both methods to help you determine which is best for your specific reading.
- Navigating Textbook Reading – A flowchart to break down many of the problems students face in reading textbooks.
- SQ3R – The SQ3R method for reading textbooks has helped many students make sense of their assigned readings. It stands for “Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review.” Learn the details in this handout, then use the SQ3R in Action worksheet to practice.
- OK5R – This method is similar to SQ3R, and stands for “Overview, Key ideas, Read, Record, Recite, Review, Reflect.” Learn the details in the handout, then use the OK5R in Action worksheet to practice.
Note-taking
- Note-Taking: Strategies Summary (shown in video) Learn the different ways to take notes, then find which is right for you.
- Good & Bad Note Samples Example of 2 different note-taking strategies.
Textbook Resources
- UCF Library – Did you know you can check out some textbooks from the library for free? See if your books are available, and check out more library resources for getting free textbooks.
- UCF Financial Aid – Find monetary resources to buy your textbooks.
Want to talk to a professional about further improving your study skills and developing an action plan for academic success? Click here to schedule a one-on-one appointment with an ACE Coach.