Also consider your history with reading. If you are used to reading only one 400 page book per month, try to choose a book that is a fraction of that size, like 150-200 pages. This allows your goal to be realistic while still challenging.
Many people read a variety of subjects as a means to get better at being a human and being a life-long learner. [2] X Research source Try keeping a reading list of books that you want to read. Whenever you come across a book that interests you, update your list so you always have something interesting from which to choose.
Even if you feel the text doesn’t keep your attention, you can always focus on what worked or didn’t work, what the author did well and what they didn’t. Not only will this show a deep analysis of the text, but it will also help you in determining what books you prefer to read. Commit to your goal. If you are forced to read an assigned book within a week’s time, prepare yourself by truly committing to the goal. Always remind yourself of what depends on your completion of the book (a grade, a report, a presentation, etc. ).
Learn how fast you read. Determining how many words per minute (wpm) you are able to read will help you to determine what size book to choose as well as how much time per day should be spent reading. Time required can fluctuate based on the difficulty of the text, but having an idea of how long it will take will give you a measurable goal to work with. Choose the right time of day to read. You should always choose the time of day when you have the most energy so you’ll be more focused and more prepared to learn. Try treating it like an appointment and schedule time with yourself each day to read. Wake up, take a shower, and read while eating breakfast; or stop at your favorite coffee shop on the way to work and spend 30 minutes reading while enjoying your coffee. By putting everything in its “proper place,” you’ll be more likely to stick to your assigned task
After your goal of 10 minutes, aim for reading one to two chapters. By then, your interest will have been piqued and you’ll want to continue reading without checking the time. [6] X Research source
Depending on how often you read, you can add an extra 30 minutes to 1 hour each day. This equates to an increase of about 5 hours per week. [7] X Research source Carry your book anywhere you go so you will always be prepared to read. Use your phone or an electronic reading device such as a Kindle to always have a book at your fingertips. [8] X Research source If you’re on a deadline, remove distracting apps from your phone for the week. [9] X Research source Even if you’re only able to read ahead a few pages, you’ll still be ahead of your goal which can boost your confidence and give you a rewarding feeling. [10] X Research source
Skim headings and subheading to search for organization and main ideas. Read the first and last sentence of each paragraph. If you are able to abstract the meaning, move on; otherwise, it may be necessary to read the entire paragraph. [12] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Business Review Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices Go to source
Try sticking to a schedule and routine to avoid falling behind. If you do fall behind, make a realistic plan about how to get back on track. Give up television for one evening or take your book to the gym to make up time. Be sure to control your emotions if you find yourself behind in your goal. Keep from feeling overwhelmed and hopeless by putting a realistic plan into action. [15] X Research source The best way to avoid this feeling is to stay ahead of your reading at all times.
Being comfortable is a major part of reading; but being comfortable and tired is usually a recipe for disaster. Avoid reading in bed unless it has become habit or part of your winding down routine for bedtime.
This practice can be equated to cutting wood. If you have wood to cut you must first sharpen your saw when cutting the first log, not the last. You can build your skills by reading more (not just books), reading often, or trying a speed reading program.
