Systematically Skim Books To Learn Better

Systematically Skim Books To Learn Better

We’re taught from an early age that skimming a book is a bad idea. However, Asian Efficiency points out that when you know what to expect from a book you can actually learn the subject better.

Picture: Jayel Aheram/Flickr

The idea here is to skim ahead in a book before you dig in. This gives you an idea of the subject matter, and you can then prepare yourself better. Here’s how Asian Efficiency recommends you do it:

  • As we mentioned in our article on speed reading, start with an objective in mind. In this case, it is likely to read, understand and implement the ideas in the book in your life and business.
  • Start by examining the cover and blurb if you haven’t already done so.
  • Look through the table of contents.
  • Have a flick through the index.
  • Skim through the chapter headings and some of the subheadings. If something catches your attention, read a bit more about it.

Once you’re familiar with the big ideas in a book, you’ll be better at seeing how they connect as you read them. It’s a good way to really grasp a non-fiction book. While we’re taught that skimming ahead is a bad idea, it really does work well in this case. Head over to Asian Efficiency for some more ways to retain more information when reading.

How to Effectively Read and Implement Books [Asian Efficiency via 99U]


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