Content that is challenging requires a quiet reading area. This may be a library, or a part of the home that can be closed off from household noise. An area that doesn't offer other stimuli is also preferred, as it helps keep the mind on the reading. The reading area should have proper lighting so that the content is easy to read without causing eyestrain, which can lead to headaches that interrupt your reading.
When the material isn't as interesting as you would like, you might become distracted. This may cause you to reread the same paragraph several times because you lost your place. It helps to place a ruler or pen under the line you're reading. This also keeps the eyes moving across the page when reading long sections of text.
Reading long sections of text you're not interested in can become boring. Highlighting text in books that you own helps draw attention to important information and provides an interactive experience, which can keep the mind occupied and interested. Highlighting is also a useful tip because it helps make the information easy to find when rereading the content and helps the reader retain the information. The only thing to remember is to not overly highlight the text or you will defeat the purpose.
Some nonfiction is written in such a technical manner that the material isn't always easy to digest. Taking notes while reading gives you the opportunity to put the information in your own words. This is a useful tip for two reasons. Not only does rewriting the information make it easier to understand, but when you think of information in your own terms it's easier to remember. Another tip for taking notes is to use a recorder in place of a pen and paper. A recorder allows your thoughts to flow quickly and can be replayed at any time.