Preview the material thoroughly prior to reading to develop an overview of the article. Read the introduction and conclusion, seeking a succinct summary of the thesis and supporting arguments. Scan the table of contents and any section headers for additional information about the article's content and organization.
Keep a pen in hand and a notebook nearby while reading to support efficient analysis of the material. Highlight or underline sections of the material which are critical to the development of the main argument. Record any unfamiliar words, and look up their meanings immediately after finishing the first reading. Use the notebook or page margins to record questions about the reading or thoughts to be used in a summary or essay.
Ask questions while reading to ensure the material has been comprehensively absorbed. Identify the main argument, and what evidence the author presents in support of his thesis. Seek information about underlying bias and intentions that have shaped the reading, and record this information in the reading notes for simple review.
Review the material carefully, as significant components of the article can be missed in a first reading. During a second or third reading, ensure the arguments identified are comprehensive, underlining any pieces that were initially missed. Prior to a class discussion or reading quiz, quickly scan the highlighted elements for an efficient review of the material.