The SQ4R Reading Method Explained

Sep 7, 2024

SQ4R Method for Effective Reading

Introduction

  • Problem: Difficulty in remembering content after reading.
  • Solution: Engage in reading using effective methods.
  • Method Introduced: SQ4R, applicable to books, articles, magazines, newspapers, journals, and websites.
  • Developers: Professors Robinson, Forsyth, and Wibberley.

SQ4R Overview

  • Acronym: Six-step method for reading and understanding text.
    1. Survey
    2. Question
    3. Read
    4. Record
    5. Recite
    6. Review

Detailed Steps

1. Survey

  • Goal: Understand organization and key ideas.
  • Actions:
    • Read introduction, headings, subheadings, summary/conclusion.
    • Review graphs, charts, images, and captions.
  • Outcome: General idea of organization and main ideas.

2. Question

  • Goal: Turn headings and subheadings into questions.
  • Question Words: Which, When, What, Why, Where, How, Who.
  • Example:
    • Heading: "Deforestation and Biodiversity"
    • Questions: What is biodiversity? How does deforestation affect biodiversity?
  • Benefits: Connects new information with existing knowledge.

3. Read

  • Goal: Identify major points, ideas, and answers.
  • Action: Read one section at a time, considering your questions.
  • Example: Identify causes of deforestation like forest fires.

4. Record

  • Goal: Enhance retention by taking notes.
  • Actions:
    • Write down definitions, details, facts, and concepts.
    • Use brief notes or phrases.
  • Example: "Forest fires = 1 cause"

5. Recite

  • Goal: Reinforce information through verbal repetition.
  • Action: Recite notes out loud after each section.
  • Benefit: Strengthens connections between known and new information.

6. Review

  • Goal: Ensure understanding of the material.
  • Actions:
    • Answer your questions out loud.
    • Consult notes or reread sections if necessary.
  • Example: List causes of deforestation and verify knowledge.

Conclusion

  • Practice: SQ4R may initially seem time-consuming but becomes easier with practice.
  • Outcome: Active reading takes time but enhances learning and retention.
  • Resources: For more information, check OSLIS and the Oregon CLIP Project.

Additional Resources

  • OSLIS: Provides further information on effective reading and research processes.
  • Acknowledgment: Thanks to the Oregon CLIP Project for adapting tutorials.