SQ5R Active Reading Strategy

Introduction to SQ5R

SQ5R is a reading strategy designed to help improve comprehension and retention when reading textbooks or academic material. The acronym stands for:

• Survey
• Question
• Read
• Record
• Recite
• Review
• Reflect

Steps of SQ5R

1. Survey

• Purpose: Get an overview of the chapter or material before reading in detail.
• Actions:
  • Read the introduction and summary.
  • Skim through the chapter, noting anything that stands out.
  • Understand the general structure and content.

2. Question

• Purpose: Set a purpose for reading by generating questions.
• Actions:
  • Develop questions based on learning outcomes and headings.
  • Use these questions to guide and focus reading.

3. Read

• Purpose: Thoroughly understand the material.
• Actions:
  • Break reading material into manageable sections (about 30 minutes each).
  • Look for answers to your questions.
  • Identify key concepts and supporting details.

4. Record

• Purpose: Capture important information to aid memory and understanding.
• Actions:
  • After reading each section, write down answers to your questions.
  • Note other important information.

5. Recite

• Purpose: Reinforce memory and understanding through verbal repetition.
• Actions:
  • Look away from the material and try to recite key information and ideas from memory.

6. Review

• Purpose: Reinforce learning and aid long-term retention.
• Actions:
  • Frequently review your notes.
  • Make reviewing a regular practice.

7. Reflect

• Purpose: Deepen understanding by connecting new knowledge with existing knowledge.
• Actions:
  • Reflect on what you have learned.
  • Connect new ideas to older concepts to form a comprehensive understanding.

Conclusion

• Implement SQ5R before reading your next chapter to enhance comprehension and retention.