📖 How To Annotate Books Like a Pro ✍🏻 get more out of reading with these tips + tricks!

Summary

This video script advocates the practice of annotating while reading to enhance comprehension and retention of literature. It introduces three levels of annotation, from non-permanent tabs and sticky notes for the hesitant, to in-depth highlighting and personal notes for the committed reader. The script also discusses tools and techniques, emphasizing the personal growth and unique experience that active reading provides. Sponsored by Native deodorant, the video offers a comprehensive guide to transforming a passive reading habit into an interactive and immersive literary journey.

Takeaways

• 📚 Annotating while reading can help retain more details, engage more deeply with the text, and formulate nuanced opinions.
• 💭 Reading is about absorbing a story deeply, not just passively observing plot points and character names.
• 🖊️ Annotating involves being an active participant in the conversation an author starts by writing a book.
• 📝 Reasons for annotating include remembering details for reviews, generating discussion questions, reading critically, and tracking themes or concepts.
• 📚 Annotating can transform a book into a sentimental and unique item, enhancing the reading experience.
• 🛠️ Basic tools for annotating include tabs, highlighters, and pens, with preferences varying based on personal style and the book's content.
• 🌟 Using a key with different colored tabs can help categorize and remember specific aspects of the text, such as quotes, character development, or themes.
• 📖 Annotating levels range from non-permanent (using tabs and sticky notes) to more involved (highlighting, underlining, and writing notes directly in the book).
• 📝 Writing notes in the margins can include reactions, connections to other parts of the novel, or personal reflections, enhancing understanding and retention.
• 🎨 Advanced annotating might involve using different colors, doodles, or even drawings to creatively engage with the text, though this is optional and depends on personal preference.
• 🌱 There are no strict rules for annotating; the approach should be tailored to the individual reader's preferences and the nature of the book.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of annotating while reading according to the video?

The main purpose of annotating while reading is to retain more of what you read, engage more critically with the text, remember meaningful quotes, and become an active participant in the conversation started by the author.

Why does the speaker annotate books?

The speaker annotates to deeply engage with the text, to meet the author halfway by actively participating in the conversation initiated by writing the book, and to inspire and change themselves through the story.

What are some reasons to annotate while reading as mentioned in the video?

Reasons include remembering details for reviews or journal entries, creating discussion questions for a book club, reading more critically, remembering favorite moments and quotes, tracking themes or concepts, staying on top of complicated world-building, and learning new vocabulary.

What is the significance of using a 'key' in the annotating process?

Using a 'key' helps categorize annotations by assigning different colors or symbols to different aspects such as quotes, character development, themes, and plot points, making it easier to understand and reference the annotations later.

How does the video suggest using tabs for annotating without permanently altering the book?

The video suggests using tabs to mark passages that catch your eye without using a key initially, and for a more advanced approach, using a key with different colors for various categories to understand the reason behind the tabbing.

What are some tools recommended in the video for annotating books?

The video recommends tabs, a fine nib pen like the Pentel Hybrid Technica, and a Tombow highlighter for annotating. For non-permanent annotation, clear sticky notes and Sharpie permanent markers are suggested.

How does the video describe the three levels of annotating?

The three levels are: Level one - annotating without commitment (non-permanent), Level two - quick and easy annotation (basic writing and highlighting in the book), and Level three - Pro level annotating (advanced tabbing system, underlining, circling, and extensive personal notes in the margins).

What is the benefit of using clear sticky notes for annotating according to the video?

Clear sticky notes allow you to write and highlight without altering the book, and they can be easily removed without damaging the pages. They are especially useful for books you may not want to keep or for library books.

How does the video address concerns about writing in books?

The video acknowledges the hesitance some readers may have about writing in books and offers non-permanent methods such as tabs and sticky notes. It also emphasizes that authors appreciate engaged readers and that annotating can make a book more special and unique.

What is the role of a reading caddy or travel bag in the annotating process as mentioned in the video?

A reading caddy or travel bag helps keep all annotating supplies organized and easily accessible whether reading at home or on the go, ensuring that the reader has everything needed for an immersive and engaging reading experience.

How does the video suggest using annotations for rereading purposes?

The video suggests that annotations can greatly enhance the rereading experience by allowing you to see past highlights, tabs, and personal notes, and even engage in a conversation with your past self through notes written in different colors for each read.