STUDY TIPS TO SUCCEED: SMART READING, LEARNING STYLES, & NOTE-TAKING

Reading at the College Level

Active Learning refers to a method of learning where active student participation is encouraged through project-based exercises.

Active Reading describes intentional reading. Those who use active reading identify a purpose, key points, and engage with the text rather than simply consuming information.

Those who read for retention internalize information instead of just acquiring surface level knowledge.

1.) You need to read every word.

2.) Reading something once is sufficient.

3.) You shouldn’t skip passages.

4.) Machines improve speed.

5.) A faster reading rate means less comprehension

5 College Reading Myths

* See handout

Reading Tips

• Ask yourself pre-reading questions: “What am I looking for?

• The most effective readers vary their speed to the text.

• When skimming, always read intro/conclusion, bold points, definitions, and objectives.

• Reread key material to identify key themes and information relevant to your purpose.

• Highlight most important points of each section.

• Slow down reading rate for more confusing phrases, technical terms, and thesis statements.

The Reading Environment• Assign a reading space: find a

quiet spot where you won’t be distracted.

• Lighting matters, you should be able to read the text without straining your eyes.

• Sit in a seat that you will be comfortable in but not too comfortable in that you’ll fall asleep.

• Never read in bed!

• Stretch, walk around, and take fresh air breaks to boost oxygen levels and blood circulation.

R1: Read

R2: Record

R3: Recite

Read and re-read until you can answer the question: "What did the author say in this paragraph?“

Retain by underlining, making notes in the margin, or making notes in your notebook.

Cover up your notes and recite aloud. Remember! If you can't say it now, you won't be able to say it tomorrow in class, nor write it in a week on an exam.

THE SQR3 READING METHOD

DISCOVERING YOUR LEARNING STYLE

DVC Learning Styles

I. The Visual/ Verbal Learning Style

II. The Visual/ Nonverbal Learning Style

III.The Tactile/ Kinesthetic Learning Style

IV. The Auditory/ Verbal Learning Style

Visual/Verbal Learners…• Learn best when information is presented visually

and in a written language format.

• Benefit blackboards (or overhead projector), lists, and outlines

• Learn textbooks and class notes

• Autonomous and visualize class material

Visual/ Non Verbal Learners…• Learn best when information is

presented visually and in a picture or design format.

• Benefit from visual aids such as film, video, maps and charts and information from pictures and diagrams in textbooks

• Also visualize information while studying and often have an artistic side

Tactile/ Kinesthetic Learners

• Learn best when physically engaged in a "hands on" activity

• Benefit from a lab setting where you can manipulate materials

• Respond to in-class demonstrations, "hands on" student learning experiences, and field work outside the classroom.

• Tips: chew gum, walk, review material while exercising.

Auditory/ Verbal Learners…• Learn best when information is presented

auditory in an oral language format.

• Respond to lectures , audio tapes, participating in group discussions, and listening/speaking exchanges.

• While trying to remember something, often "hear" the way someone told you the information, or by repeating it out loud.

Effective Note-taking

Concentrate on the lecture or on the reading material and take notes consistently.

Take notes selectively. Do NOT try to write down every word. Remember that the average lecturer speaks approximately 125-140 words per minute, and the average note-taker writes at a rate of about 25 words per minute.

Translate ideas into your own words and internalize.

Make your notes visually dynamic. Include underlines, colors, and highlights for better organization.

Be brief. Write down only the major points and important information.

Write legibly. Notes are useless if you cannot read them later!

Types of NotesFormal Outline: Roman numerals and upper-class letters organize information and list key points.

Paragraph or List Format: Bullet points and indentations help list key points and supporting information

Cornell Method: Two columns: a note-taking column on the left 2x’s the size of a cue questions/key word column on the left, leaving two inches at the bottom of the page. Students write notes in the right columns during lecture/ reading and write main ideas and cue column questions within 24 hours.

Mind Mapping: A central idea sprouts “branches” of related ideas and details (good for visual learners)

Example of a Formal Outline

Example of a Paragraph or List Format

Example of the Cornell Method

Example of Mind-Mapping

Activity & Questions

Study Guide: Note Taking - YouTube