Even if you rely on a language learning software as your primary resource, you probably rely occasionally on printed materials for supplementary lessons, too. If you want more of your readings to stick to memory, here are some tips you should follow:
- If you’re reading a book, make sure to read the preface. The preface is often used to explain the author’s perspective. That way, you get some context to better understand the ideas expressed, such as the author’s background, the book’s organizational structure and similar relevant details.
- Do more than one pass. First pass, you want to do a quick skim, previewing the material to get a general idea of what’s included. Second, you can read in detail. Do more passes if the complexity of the ideas require it.
- Minimize highlighting. Using a marker to highlight important passages is fine. Use it sparingly, though. The point of reading is to understand what’s being said, not to find things to mark off with a highlighter pen.
- Take notes. Some people have eidetic memory. Unless you’re one of them, taking notes is your best chance of being able to easily review your readings. Be diligent about doing it — it’s less work, compared to having to read the book again.
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