SQ3R stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review. It is a well-known study technique used to enhance reading comprehension and retention of information.

Survey

Before diving into the material, it is important to get a high-level understanding of what you are about to read. This can be accomplished by skimming through the chapter or section, paying attention to headings, subheadings, bolded or italicized text, graphics, tables, and summaries. The goal is to form a general idea of the content and structure of the reading material.

Question

After surveying the material, formulate questions based on the headings or subheadings. These questions serve as a roadmap for your reading session. They help focus your attention and make you an active reader, searching for answers as you progress through the text.

Read

Read actively and thoughtfully, keeping the questions you formulated in mind. Absorb the material thoroughly, making notes, underlining important concepts or definitions, and summarizing key points in your own words. It is essential to engage with the text rather than passively skimming through.

Recite

Once you have finished reading a section or chapter, close the book and try to recite or explain the information aloud using your own words. This process reinforces your understanding and enables you to identify any areas where you might need further clarification or study.

Review

After going through the entire text using the SQ3R technique, it is crucial to review the material periodically. This can be done by revisiting your notes, reciting the key points, and testing your recall by answering the questions you formulated earlier. Regular reviews help strengthen your long-term memory and solidify the knowledge gained from the reading.

Using the SQ3R method, you can effectively approach textbooks, articles, or any other reading material, improving comprehension, retention, and overall learning outcomes.