Identify the main characters in the piece you are reading and note their names in the margins for quick reference. Write important personal traits next to their names. This annotation strategy will help you identify the characters early on, which will aid in your comprehension of the piece.
Underline the main ideas. If you're reading a journal article or doctoral dissertation, the author might present the main idea in the form of a thesis. Next to the underlined text, write a few notes about the main idea. Do you agree with it? What do you hope the author will use to support his argument?
Circle key words and concepts and write down your thoughts. Note how they relate to the main idea.
Make note of any words or concepts that you do not understand. Look up unknown words. If a concept doesn't make sense, write questions in the margin that help you assess the author's reasoning.
Underline uses of imagery and symbolism. Note how these literary devices impact your understanding of the work. Does it make the author's argument more effective? Does it bring the story to life?
Write down any questions you have about the work and research them.