Find a clean work place with bright light and space to lay out your reading material. Avoid reading in distracting environments such as parks, cafes or even in the bathtub. Sit up straight and relax the shoulders.
Create goals or a schedule and write it down. Split up the text into smaller sections. Require yourself to read only small portions of the material over a period of time. Read a section every day or every few days if the deadline permits. Read all of the material in the same day if necessary but allow breaks in between sections.
Read the table of contents and any titles and subtitles. Skim through the text and notice any diagrams, maps, pictures or bold words. Get an idea of the subject(s) you'll be reading about. Develop some questions that you think or hope the text might answer. Write down the questions.
Use a highlighter, pencil or pen to note important parts of the text by underlining or writing notes on a pad or in the margin of the book. Use a variety of colors if desired. Choose a different color for each section or one color for each topic and a consistent color for parts you find confusing or on which you need extra clarification. Write down questions or any answers to questions you previously developed. List important new vocabulary words or terms as you come to them.
Stop at your self-assigned break time. Stand up, stretch, take a quick walk, grab a light snack or check your e-mail. Avoid phone calls, as they may cause you to exceed your break time. Stick to your plan and do not extend your break beyond your scheduled time.
Return to your reading. Review what you've read or learned after several sections. Write down any new predictions or questions. Continue reading and breaking until you have finished the material. Review the main ideas and then reward yourself for completing the material. Have a treat, exercise or do a fun activity.