Active Reading // 3 Easy Methods

Summary

In this video, the speaker introduces the concept of active reading, emphasizing the importance of engaging with material to better understand and remember it. They outline three methods: the Read/Summary (RS) method, where each paragraph is summarized to enhance retention; the Memory Boost (MB) method, which focuses on writing key terms messily to improve memory through tactile engagement; and the Think Like a Teacher (TLT) method, which uses color-coding and visualization to highlight key points. These techniques are designed to keep readers focused and awake, making learning more effective and enjoyable.

Takeaways

• 📖 Active reading involves engaging with material to better understand and remember it.
• 📝 The first method, Read/Summary (RS), focuses on summarizing each paragraph as you read to stay focused.
• 🧠 The Memory Boost (MB) method is used to help remember keywords and lists by writing and rewriting material.
• 👩‍🏫 The third method, Think Like a Teacher (TLT), involves highlighting, color coding, and pretending you're a teacher reviewing the content.
• ✍️ Engaging your hands and senses, like writing and highlighting, helps reinforce memory and understanding.
• 🔖 Summarizing as you read doesn't need to be neat; the goal is to engage and retain information, not make polished notes.
• 🖋️ The Memory Boost method emphasizes quick, messy writing to improve memory retention, particularly for lists.
• 🎨 Using color or even drawings (if possible) can enhance focus and recall, especially when remembering multiple items.
• 💡 Think like a teacher by anticipating what terms or concepts might be important to test or highlight during a lesson.
• 💬 Engaging multiple senses, like speaking aloud while reading or drawing symbols, can further improve memory and focus.

Q & A

What is active reading as defined in the video?

Active reading involves engaging with the material to better understand, remember, and focus on it. This applies to PowerPoint slides, textbooks, books, and magazines.

What are the three methods of active reading discussed in the video?

The three methods discussed are: 1) Read/Summary (RS) method, 2) Memory Boost (MB) method, and 3) Think Like a Teacher (TLT) method.

How does the Read/Summary (RS) method work?

In the RS method, you read a paragraph and summarize it in the margin or on a separate sheet of paper. This helps you engage with the material by writing quick, informal summaries.

Why does the creator suggest using the RS method, even though it can be messy?

The RS method helps you stay engaged with the text, ensuring that you process and remember the material, rather than passively reading and forgetting it. It encourages better retention by making you actively think about each paragraph.

What is the Memory Boost (MB) method, and why is it the creator’s favorite?

The MB method involves rewriting lists or key points messily and repeatedly to engage memory through touch and repetition. It's useful for remembering keywords and lists, and the creator enjoys this method for its effectiveness.

Can you describe how the creator uses the MB method with an example?

The creator uses an old notebook and rewrites key terms, such as the labors of Heracles, in a quick and messy manner. This repetitive writing process aids memory recall by engaging both hand and mind.

What is the Think Like a Teacher (TLT) method?

In the TLT method, you imagine yourself as a teacher and highlight key terms or important concepts in your reading material. The goal is to predict what might be tested or taught, which helps you focus on crucial information.

How does color-coding and drawing help in the TLT method?

By color-coding and drawing, you visually engage with the material, which helps you remember it more effectively. It also adds a creative element, making the content stand out and easier to recall.

Why is engaging multiple senses important in active reading, according to the video?

Engaging multiple senses—such as visual, auditory, and tactile—enhances memory and focus. Writing, saying terms out loud, and even drawing can help you process and retain information more effectively.

What is the primary goal of active reading as described in the video?

The primary goal of active reading is to stay engaged with the material, prevent boredom, and improve comprehension and memory retention. It helps you avoid passive reading, where you might forget most of the content.