SQ3R Study Method

The SQ3R Study method (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review) is recommended as a means to faster reading and improved retention if the important points in a reading assignment. The five steps are used in the following way when studying.

1. SURVEY: Take a few minutes to glance at the heading to get an idea of the central ideas discussed. If the selection has a summary paragraph, read it.
2. QUESTION: Make a question out of the topic sentences. The main points in the section will be those that form the answer to this question.
3. READ: Read the entire section actively searching for the information that will answer the question.
4. RECITE: When you have completed reading the selection, try to answer the question in you own words without referring to the material. Write down key phrases. If you cannot answer the question, reread the section.
   Repeat steps 2, 3, and 4 for each section in a selection: rephrase each heading into a question, read the section for the information necessary to answer the question, recite the answer by jotting down key phrases.
5. REVIEW: Review the entire selection by reading over your notes to understand the relationship between the main points. Cover your notes and try to recall the points under each heading. Then cover the headings and try to recall them from your notes.

This study method should help you to remember the important points of the reading assignment and also improve your test marks as the heading turned into questions are likely to be the points stressed on the test.

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