SQ3R
Study Method
The SQ3R method is a powerful study system designed to improve reading comprehension and retention, consisting of five steps: Survey, Questions, Read, Recite, and Review. Developed by Francis P. Robinson, this active reading technique helps you engage with material before, during, and after reading to better understand and remember it.
Benefit
SQ3R give a lots of benefits such as, increased comprehension, improved retention, better test preparation, and enhanced critical reading skills. . It helps develop a strong foundation of knowledge by activating prior understanding and formulating questions before reading, leading to better focus, more productive study sessions, and improved long-term retention of information. The structured approach makes reading less passive and more engaging, ultimately transforming it into a more enjoyable and effective learning process
What Are SQ3R?
Survey
Before you begin a new chapter, skim the material and get a feel for the main topics and ideas in the text. The process below should take 5-10 minutes.Read the introduction
- Look at the headings and subheadings
- Look at the pictures, charts and graphs (anything visual)
- Read the chapter summary
- Look at the study questions at the end of the chapter
Question
Use questions to guide your reading. Take the first heading in the chapter and turn it into a question before reading the paragraphs in that section. For instance, if the heading is “A Limited Partnership”, read it as “What is a limited partnership?” Now you have created a purpose for reading because you are looking for the answer to the question.
Read
As you read look for answers to the questions you created. Use the following tips when reading:
- Usually the first sentence of each paragraph states the main idea.
- Look for transition words such as next, for example, in contrast, in addition, to help you follow the author’s point.
- Make notes in the margin or in a notebook as you read. Paraphrase main points and ideas; do NOT simply copy information from the textbook.
- Highlight only the most important points. Too much highlighting can make it difficult to separate the main point from support details.
Recite
After reading, look at the questions you created or those at the end of the chapter. Can you answer them? If you cannot, go back, reread the appropriate. Use sections, and take notes. Take the time and recite or recall whatever you can. Remember as soon as you finish reading.
Review
After you study new material, it is extremely important to conduct an overall review within 24 hours for maximum comprehension and memory. You can lose 80% of what you have learned if you do not review within the next day.