Preview everything that you read. Rather than starting on page one and reading from left to right, word-for-word, flip through the entire book or article. Look at the structure of the entire work, including its subheadings and any terms that might be highlighted or italicized. Just reading these items will likely tell you what the majority of the work is about.
Peruse the index of the book to look for terms that might be listed multiple times. This will help your mind slow down and pay attention when you encounter these in the text. Read the introduction and conclusion to every chapter. This is especially helpful in college textbooks and can be completed in about 15 minutes.
Take a break and let your mind absorb what you've read in your preview. For many people, concentration only lasts a short period of time. Providence College recommends reading in short 35- to 40-minute sessions before taking a break. Another efficient method is to read for 20 to 25 minutes and take a five- to 10-minute break. Within an hour span, you can complete two reading sessions and take two breaks.
Skim the entire text of the book. There are many different methods of skimming. You can start at the beginning and read from left to right, but you may start reading slowly again. Another effective method is to let your eyes run down the middle of the page, allowing your peripheral vision to pick up the words at the beginning and end of sentences. Do not expect to retain the entire book or article at this point. If reading for comprehension, repeat the process two or three more times or until you feel like you have adequate comprehension. You can read an entire book this way multiple times before most people can finish a book once reading word-for-word.
Take notes, but not as you read. Once you finish each skim session, jot down as many notes as you can in a matter of a few minutes. Add to those notes after each skimming session. Writing will increase your retention of the material and prepare your mind for the next skimming session.